WASHINGTON, D.C. May 28, 2026 — Treasury Secretary Scott Bessent praised the Trump administration’s new Trump Accounts program during a White House briefing on May 28, 2026, calling it “one of the greatest real-time financial literacy educations in history.”
In remarks captured in a video shared by the White House Rapid Response account, Bessent highlighted how the initiative gives American children direct exposure to capital markets through a dedicated app. “American families will look on their phone every day and see [their account],” he said, emphasizing hands-on learning over traditional classroom instruction.
Trump Accounts are tax-advantaged investment accounts for U.S. citizens under age 18. Key features include:
- $1,000 federal seed for every eligible child born between January 1, 2025, and December 31, 2028, invested in U.S. stock index funds.
- Annual contributions up to $5,000 from parents, family, employers, philanthropists, or states.
- Custodial control by parents/guardians until the child turns 18, when funds become fully accessible (with IRA-like tax advantages for education, home purchase, or continued saving).
- App-based access launched nationwide on major platforms, with full rollout targeted for July 4, 2026.
The program, established under the One Big Beautiful Bill Act, aims to foster long-term wealth building and economic participation. Projections based on historical S&P 500 performance suggest significant growth potential through compounding.
Bessent positioned the accounts as a bridge between Main Street and Wall Street, noting that roughly 38% of Americans currently lack equity exposure. “We’re going to create a generation of shareholders,” he stated.
Nearly 6 million children have already been signed up, according to recent updates from the Treasury Department. Major companies including Charles Schwab, Robinhood, Bank of New York Mellon, and others have announced matching contributions or support. Philanthropists like Michael and Susan Dell have pledged billions to expand access.
The initiative ties into America’s 250th anniversary celebrations and is described by supporters as a modern evolution of ideas like Baby Bonds, but with private market investments rather than government bonds.
Critics have raised concerns about market risk, potential fees, implementation challenges, and equity across income levels, while some view it as a step toward broader financial education reform.
Families can enroll via Form 4547 when filing taxes or through the official Trump Accounts app and website (trumpaccounts.gov). Activation emails are being sent in phases.
The program reflects the administration’s emphasis on ownership, capitalism, and preparing younger generations for economic success through practical experience rather than theory alone.
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