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Building Your Child's Financial Future: Tax Strategies

Setting up a robust financial future for your child is a valuable gift that can yield lifelong benefits. By strategically leveraging tax-advantaged accounts and well-crafted financial plans, you not only address a child’s immediate needs but also create a durable foundation for their future financial security. Our Maitland-based firm is dedicated to guiding you through this process with expert insights on Trump Accounts, Section 529 plans, and other beneficial strategies.

Trump Accounts: A Revolutionary Approach to Children's Savings

  • Understanding Trump Accounts - Emerging from recent tax reforms, Trump Accounts represent a novel type of tax-deferred vehicle aimed at encouraging savings for children. Designed for children under 18 with a Social Security number, these accounts offer flexibility with contributions coming from parents, friends, non-profits, or even the government. Think of them as IRAs tailored for minors, without the requirement for earned income.

  • Contribution Rules - Contributions to Trump Accounts are capped at $5,000 annually, adjusted for inflation. Notably, donations by tax-exempt entities do not count towards this cap, promoting a wider range of support opportunities. Importantly, contributions cease when the child turns 18, and they are not tax deductible.

  • Distribution Guidelines - Withdrawals from Trump Accounts typically commence at age 18. Pre-59½ withdrawals of earnings incur ordinary tax and potential penalties, akin to IRA standards, unless specific exceptions apply.

  • Federal Contributions - A government initiative supports the early development of these accounts with a $1,000 contribution for eligible newborns. This feature ensures a head start in financial planning, fostering early investment engagement. If an account isn’t set up by the initial tax filing, the Treasury will automatically establish it, safeguarding every eligible child's participation.

  • Timing Projections - Anticipate opportunities to begin contributions to Trump Accounts by mid-2026 as details around account setup become available.

Section 529 Plans: The Cornerstone of Educational Savings

  • Defining 529 Plans - Section 529 plans offer tax-advantaged frameworks to save for educational needs. Funds grow tax-deferred and offer tax-free withdrawals for qualified education costs.

  • Contribution Nuances - Contributions from family and friends face no income restrictions. To sidestep gift tax issues, annual gifts should align with the gift tax exclusion limits—$19,000 for individuals and $38,000 for couples in 2025.

  • Gift Bundling - Utilize the five-year lump sum strategy to contribute up to $95,000 ($190,000 for couples) at once without triggering gift taxes, maximizing potential educational savings.

  • Flexible Utilization - Beyond college expenses, 529 plans now extend up to $20,000 per year for K-12 tuition and support apprenticeships. Beneficiary alterations within families offer additional malleability.

  • Rollover Provisions - Surplus 529 funds can now transition to Roth IRAs under Secure Act 2.0 guidelines, preserving monetary value beyond educational use.

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Employment in Family Enterprises: Tax-Advantaged Youth Employment

  • Income Tax Benefits - Employing children in family businesses offers significant tax savings. Both business deductions and avoiding FICA taxes (if under 18) afford dual benefits.

  • Retirement Contributions - Early employment and Roth IRA contributions, supported by earned income, promote long-term financial growth through tax-free compounding and flexible withdrawal options.

Additional Wealth Strategies: Early Financial Habits and Ventures

  • Early Retirement Savings - Even minors with earned income can leverage Roth IRAs, fostering early investment habits.

  • Instilling Financial Discipline - Encouraging structured savings through accounts like Trump Accounts and 529 plans inculcates financial prudence early on.

  • Entrepreneurial Spirit - Encourage children to explore small business ventures or service offerings, providing valuable income and financial skills.

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Conclusion - With strategic planning utilizing Trump Accounts, 529 plans, and integrating children into family businesses, you can effectively shape a child's financial trajectory. These tools are designed to not only manage educational and immediate financial needs but also nurture a sustainable economic future. By embracing these strategies, you lay the groundwork for lasting financial security across generations. At our firm serving Winter Park, Lake Nona, and beyond, we’re poised to support your journey to secure your child’s bright financial future. Contact us for detailed guidance and personalized solutions tailored to your unique financial objectives.

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