Trump accounts vs IRAs and 529s: Which tax-advantaged plan really wins for your family?

Core Insights - A new savings option called Trump accounts, created under the Working Families Tax Cuts bill, is gaining attention from parents for children's future savings, featuring a $1,000 government seed contribution before any family contributions [1][17] - Contributions to Trump accounts will not start until July 4, 2026, but interest is rising, especially after tech billionaires Michael and Susan Dell pledged $6 billion to fund 25 million accounts [2][17] - Experts note that the concept of Trump accounts is not new, having been proposed under various names over the years [3][17] Trump Accounts Features - Trump accounts are not limited to education expenses; funds can be used for any purpose once the child turns 18, although the money is locked until then with no early access [4][5][7] - Unlike traditional IRAs, Trump accounts do not require earned income for contributions, allowing parents, grandparents, and employers to contribute on behalf of a child [8][17] - Upon turning 18, the account transitions to a traditional IRA, with withdrawals subject to income tax and a 10% penalty for early withdrawals before age 59½ [9][17] Comparison with Other Savings Options - Trump accounts differ from 529 plans, which are specifically designed for education costs and allow tax-free growth when used for qualified expenses; Trump accounts do not offer tax-free growth [10][11] - Coverdell Education Savings Accounts (ESAs) and custodial accounts under UGMA or UTMA rules are alternatives, with ESAs allowing tax-free growth for education and custodial accounts having no contribution limits but affecting financial aid eligibility [12][13][17]