Can self-directed IRAs invest in private equity funds? The answer is yes, but you need to know some essential things. Combining private equity investments and self-directed IRAs provides a unique investment opportunity for individuals seeking comprehensive investment options with a high degree of control. However, there are rules. In this guide, you’ll learn about private equity investment […]
What You Need to Know About 2024 IRA Contribution Limits
Almost every year, the IRS updates the contribution limits allowed for individual retirement accounts (IRAs). As someone who contributes to an IRA, you should be aware of how much you can contribute annually. This way, you can maximize your contributions without going over the limit. In 2024, contributions increase for all IRA types. Are IRA […]
What Is an Easement and How Can I Invest in One?
Real estate is a popular investment option for investors. Some real estate includes easements that give another party the right to use a part of the property. While some property owners may see easements as a deal-breaker, they can be a great investment opportunity if you have a self-directed IRA. This article explains everything you […]
401(k) Withdrawal Rules
A 401(k) plan is a retirement account that employers offer employees. It allows workers to save a portion of their salary each month before IRS tax withholding. Many companies calculate contributions as a percentage of the employee’s salary and put the amount in a 401(k) account for the worker before paying them. After reaching a […]
How to Know When You’re Financially Ready for Retirement
As retirement approaches, it’s normal to ask yourself, “Am I financially ready to retire?” The answer is different for everyone. Many Americans estimate they will need $1.8 million to retire — reaching a precise number can be tricky, but ensuring financial readiness, stability and security is key. In terms of the importance of retirement planning, there are […]
Retiring Before 50: Pros and Cons of Early Retirement
The enduring popularity of the F.I.R.E. (Financial Independence, Retire Early) movement has revealed an intense interest in the idea of early retirement. There’s no doubt that the desire to retire years or even decades before passing the 60-years-old mark is alive and well in the 21st century. While retiring young is a hot topic, it does raise the question: […]
Using Your 401(k) to Buy Real Estate
One of the biggest challenges of finding a mortgage lender and buying real estate is saving enough money for the down payment. In some cases, you might find it beneficial to use your self-directed 401(k) to complete the purchase. Like any financing option, buying a property with your 401(k) comes with various pros and cons. In this […]
4 Reasons to Open a Health Savings Account
Health savings accounts allow people on high-deductible health plans to easily cover out-of-pocket medical costs. An HSA is a federally insured savings account offered by institutions such as banks, credit unions and financial benefits companies. Contributions to your health savings account are tax-free, and you can also make tax-free withdrawals and payments for your eligible medical expenses. Additionally, an HSA is […]
Benefits and Risks of Precious Metal Investments
Precious metals are just as valuable as assets today as they were in ancient civilizations, which is why they are still a wise investment choice. There are good reasons precious metals attract investors to diversify their portfolios, even when the economy goes through turbulent times. Precious metals’ value stays consistent, even against inflation and currency […]
Self-Directed IRA vs. Self-Directed IRA LLC
Many investors have sought alternatives to non-traditional investments to take control of their retirement. Self-directed IRAs offer investors an alternative to traditional investments, allowing them to choose from more asset categories. There are two options for self-directed IRAs — standard self-directed IRAs and self-directed IRA LLCs with checkbook control. With both these accounts, you have […]
10 Unique Investment Options for Your IRA
Most conventional IRAs consist of traditional investment options such as stocks, mutual funds and bonds. The beauty of a self-directed IRA is that you can explore lesser-known choices like mineral rights, offshore real estate and structured settlements. The range of self-directed IRA investment options allows you to diversify your portfolio in a way that matches your financial goals. You […]
What to Do With a Terminated Employee Stock Ownership Plan
An employee stock ownership plan, otherwise known as ESOP, is much like an employer-provided retirement plan to encourage employees to buy shares of corporate stock and reap the rewards of their role in the company’s success. Generally, you can only buy stocks after being with your employer for a specific period. So what happens to your […]