A clear path to getting started.
Review the requirements, complete the official election, and follow the activation process. Future Funds is your educational guide, not your account provider.
Review eligibility
The child needs a valid Social Security number and must be under 18 at the end of the election year. The $1,000 federal deposit has additional citizenship, birth-date, and dependent requirements.
Complete the election
An authorized adult completes IRS Form 4547 or uses an official online election option. Review the instructions to determine who can sign and whether to request the federal deposit.
Activate the account
An election is not the same as a fully activated account. Follow the instructions from the official program or designated trustee, including any identity checks and account agreements.
Plan contributions
Confirm that the account can receive funds. Coordinate family and employer contributions against the annual limit, review investment restrictions, and keep records with your provider.
Official references: IRS program overview and Form 4547 instructions. Content reviewed October 8, 2026.
Continue through official channels.
Start with the IRS overview for current enrollment options and requirements. You do not need to create an account with Future Funds.