Michael and Susan Dell have announced a historic $6.25 billion donation to help fund “Trump Accounts,” a new national savings initiative aimed at boosting long-term financial security for American children.
The program — part of President Donald Trump’s “One Big Beautiful Bill Act” — will launch in 2026 and provide tax-deferred investment accounts for eligible U.S. children.
Largest Private Donation for U.S. Children
The Dells’ $6.25 billion pledge will fund $250 deposits into investment accounts for at least 25 million children ages 10 and under who were born before the Treasury’s official funding window. According to Invest America, it is one of the largest philanthropic commitments to American children in history.
“We feel super excited to be able to make a difference in millions of children’s futures,” Michael Dell told CNN. “The power of compounding over 10, 20, 30 years is super significant.”
How Trump Accounts Work
Beginning July 4, 2026, parents and caregivers can open these tax-advantaged investment accounts online. Key details include:
- Eligible children: Any U.S. citizen aged 18 or younger with a Social Security number
- Government funding:
- $1,000 for children born between Jan. 1, 2025 – Dec. 31, 2028
- Dell donation funding:
- $250 for children born before 2025, starting with ages 10 and under
- Contribution limits:
- Up to $5,000 per year in private contributions
- Employers may contribute up to $2,500
- Investment options: Mutual funds or index funds such as the S&P 500
- Withdrawal rules: Locked until age 18, then treated like a traditional IRA
- Funds may be used for education, a first home, or starting a business
Why the Dells Donated
The initiative originated with Altimeter Capital CEO Brad Gerstner, a longtime friend of the Dells. Michael Dell said he discussed the idea with the Biden administration in earlier years, but the breakthrough came after presenting it to President Trump.
“We believe the smartest investment we can make is in children,” Dell said, adding that more philanthropists are expected to support the program.
Susan Dell echoed that sentiment: “Investing in children and their future is investing in all of our futures.”
Broad National Impact
The donation will prioritize children in ZIP codes where the median income is below $150,000, reaching families in 75% of U.S. ZIP codes.
With Michael Dell’s net worth at $148 billion, this contribution more than doubles the couple’s previous lifetime charitable giving of $2.9 billion.
