- The information on this page is current as of June 4, 2026.
Do I get this money automatically?
Why do I have to sign up?
As of June 2026, families must sign up to receive the $1,000 government contribution. The government does not automatically open accounts or add the money.
This is for two reasons:
- The government wants to make sure that the right adult in a child’s life opens the account, so the family can manage it for the child’s benefit.
- Federal law limits what the IRS can do with your sensitive data without your permission. Government lawyers have decided — at least for now — that the government can’t use your data to create and administer a 530A unless you say so.
It is possible this could change in the future, and that families could be automatically enrolled in accounts. If it does, we will update this page. Check back for updates.
Do I have to sign up to get contributions from donors/states?
You must open a 530A account to receive donor or state contributions. However, you do not need to sign up separately for each contribution.
Once your account is set up, eligible contributions, such as the Dell gift, will be added automatically if your child qualifies.
If you don’t create a 530A account your child will not receive the additional contributions that they may be eligible for.
Haven't filed your taxes? You might be leaving money on the table
You may want to file a tax return even if you did not work or earned very little income. Filing taxes may help your family access benefits, tax credits, and a 530A account.