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Building a Secure Financial Future: Tax Strategies for Your Children

Ensuring a robust financial foundation for your child is one of the most meaningful endeavors parents, grandparents, and friends can undertake. By utilizing various tax-advantaged accounts and strategies, you not only address immediate financial needs but also establish a framework for ongoing financial stability. This guide delves into strategic options, including innovative Trump Accounts, established Section 529 plans, and additional impactful strategies.

Trump Accounts: A Fresh Tax-Advantaged Opportunity

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  • An Overview of Trump Accounts - Recent tax reforms introduced Trump Accounts, a novel tax-deferred investment vehicle aimed at encouraging savings for minors. These accounts, accessible to U.S. citizens under 18 with a Social Security number, can receive contributions from parents, relatives, and even non-profit entities. Unlike traditional IRAs, they do not require the child to have earned income.

  • Contribution Parameters - The contribution ceiling for Trump Accounts is $5,000 annually, subject to inflation adjustments. Notably, donations from tax-exempt organizations do not count towards this cap if designed for qualifying minors, ensuring broader contribution flexibility. Contributions, however, are non-deductible and must cease once the child turns 18.

  • Withdrawal Terms - Generally, funds cannot be withdrawn until the beneficiary turns 18. Premature earnings withdrawals before age 59½ incur ordinary income tax and a 10% penalty, barring exceptions akin to those for IRAs.

  • Federal Contributions - A pilot program initiates federal contributions of $1,000 for eligible births from January 1, 2025, to December 31, 2028, credited back similarly to a tax payment. This initiative ensures beneficiaries gain an initial financial foothold toward securing their futures.

  • Looking Ahead - Contributions to Trump Accounts are expected to commence by mid-2026. Stay informed as logistical details continue to unfold, such as account setup procedures.

Section 529 Plans: Reliable Education Savings

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  • Understanding 529 Plans - These tax-advantaged accounts support education savings with tax-deferred growth. Withdrawals are tax-free for eligible educational expenses, maximizing educational investments.

  • Contributions and Tax Considerations - Anyone can contribute without income restrictions, though staying within the gift tax exclusion limits ($19,000 for individuals, $38,000 for couples in 2025) is advisable. Utilizing the 5-Year Lumping Strategy allows substantial contributions with maximized tax advantages.

  • Flexible Uses - 529 funds cover diverse educational expenses, including K-12 tuition up to specified limits, making them adaptable options. Beneficiaries can be changed or funds rolled over into a Roth IRA if surplus remains after educational needs.

Benefits of Employing a Child in Family Business

  • Tax-Free Compensation - Hiring a child in family enterprises allows tax-free earnings up to the standard deduction ($15,750 for 2025), minimizing tax liabilities.

  • Deductible Business Expenses - Wages to under-18 children in unincorporated family businesses are deductible and exempt from FICA taxes, reducing business tax burdens.

  • Roth IRA Contributions - Such income supports early contributions to a Roth IRA, harnessing tax-free growth and withdrawals, enhancing long-term financial planning.

Additional Strategies for Financial Growth

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  • Early Retirement Savings - Minors with earned income can open Roth IRAs, promoting early retirement planning and financial literacy.

  • Fostering Financial Responsibility - Encouraging savings through structured or personal accounts instills lifelong fiscal discipline.

  • Encouraging Entrepreneurship - Child-run ventures offer experiential learning in financial management and revenue generation for investment purposes.

In Conclusion: The diverse financial tools at our disposal—from Trump Accounts and 529 plans to Roth IRAs—create a comprehensive suite for ensuring a child’s financial well-being. These strategies not only finance education and immediate needs but also instill investment knowledge and support retirement readiness. By seizing these opportunities, families can effectively bolster their children's future, fostering a legacy of fiscal prudence.

For inquiries about any of these tax opportunities, please reach out to our office.

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Gilbert, Arizona 85233
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