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Securing a Financial Legacy: Key Tax Strategies for Children

Building a robust financial future for children can be one of the greatest legacies parents, grandparents, and close family friends can bestow. By harnessing various tax-efficient vehicles and strategies, you not only support a child’s present financial needs but also pave the way for their long-lasting security. Highlighted here are some key options, from the new Trump Accounts to well-established Section 529 plans, that can significantly contribute to a child's financial independence and educational goals.

Exploring Trump Accounts: A New Tax-Advantaged Avenue

  • Understanding Trump Accounts: Introduced as part of the latest tax reforms, Trump Accounts offer a novel savings mechanism for children's future. This tax-deferred vehicle allows parents or guardians to open accounts for children under 18 who are U.S. citizens with a Social Security number. Contributions can flow from multiple sources, including family members, employers, and sometimes, even the federal government.

  • Contribution Regulations: Annual contributions are capped at $5,000, adjustable for inflation. Contributions from tax-exempt bodies, such as nonprofits, are exempt from this cap if they serve a qualified group of children. Contributions stop after the child turns 18, and they are not tax-deductible.

  • Rules on Distributions: Typically, money cannot be withdrawn from Trump Accounts until the account holder turns 18. Pre-59½ withdrawals are taxed as ordinary income and may incur a 10% penalty unless exceptions apply, much like traditional IRAs.

  • Federal Contributions: A pilot initiative introduces a $1,000 federal contribution for every eligible newborn between 2025 and 2028, credited as a tax payment directly into their Trump Account. If parents fail to set up an account, the Treasury takes action, ensuring no child misses out on this benefit, fostering early money management and investment habits.

  • Timeline: Initial contributions to Trump Accounts are expected to commence by mid-2026 as logistical details are finalized. Stay tuned for updates on setting up these accounts.

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Section 529 Plans: A Stable Education-Funding Option

  • 529 Plan Basics: These are tax-advantaged savings accounts intended for educational expenses, allowing funds to grow tax-deferred and be withdrawn tax-free for qualified expenses.

  • Contributions and Gift Tax Implications: Anyone can contribute without income limitations, abiding by annual gift tax exclusion limits. For 2025, these limits are $19,000 per recipient ($38,000 for couples). A strategic five-year lump contribution can offset potential gift taxes, maximizing educational savings.

  • Flexible Uses: Withdrawals can cover college tuition, room and board, and other education expenses, with recent expansions to K-12 tuition and certain apprenticeships. If funds remain unused, beneficiaries can be changed within the family.

  • Rollover Opportunities: Secure Act 2.0 allows rolling over up to $35,000 from a 529 to a Roth IRA, ensuring funds continue enhancing the beneficiary’s financial landscape.

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Engaging Children in Family Businesses

  • Tax Efficiency: Employing children in family businesses allows them to earn up to the standard deduction amount tax-free. For 2025, this means earning up to $15,750 without federal tax.

  • Business Deductions: Payments to children can be deducted as business expenses, while sole proprietorships or family partnerships may benefit from FICA tax exemptions for children under 18.

  • Retirement Contributions: Children with earned income can contribute to Roth IRAs, reaping benefits of tax-free growth and withdrawals, a flexible saving mechanism fostering early financial responsibility.

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Additional Strategies for Early Financial Growth

  • Saving for Retirement: Roth IRAs are viable options for minors with earnings, promoting a culture of savings.

  • Fostering Financial Literacy: Encouraging early savings through structured accounts teaches valuable financial discipline.

  • Entrepreneurial Experiences: Activities like small businesses or part-time jobs teach revenue generation and savings management skills.

Conclusion: The comprehensive range of financial solutions available today, including Trump Accounts and 529 plans, provides a foundation for a child’s prosperous financial journey. These tools cover current educational costs while nurturing investment skills and retirement savings. By leveraging these options, you equip the next generation for enduring financial success, laying a groundwork that supports both present needs and future potentials.

If you have any questions regarding these tax strategies, feel free to contact our office at Thompson-Smith CPA, LLC.

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