Introduction Cryptocurrencies have moved from fringe speculation to mainstream financial planning. With the launch of spot Bitcoin and Ethereum ETFs, ongoing institutional adoption, and clearer IRS guidance, more investors are exploring how digital assets can fit into long-term retirement strategies. One powerful option is a Crypto IRA — a self-directed retirement account that allows you […]

How to Start a Real Estate Investment Fund
If you want to prepare for retirement with a diversified real estate investment strategy allowing for tax-advantaged growth, a real estate investment fund could be your ideal vehicle. If you hold your real estate fund within a self-directed individual retirement account (SDIRA), you can enjoy even greater tax advantages and protect your growing savings for […]

Using a Portion of a Self-Directed IRA to Purchase an Investment Property
Unlike a traditional individual retirement account (IRA), a self-directed IRA (SDIRA) allows you to invest in alternative assets like real estate. Investing in real estate can be a powerful move. However, it’s a less straightforward process to use an IRA to buy investment property, especially if your IRA is only funding a portion of the purchase. […]
How to Diversify Your Retirement Account
Putting all your retirement money into one investment or closely correlated asset types is risky. You can decrease your risk by investing in multiple asset classes. Spreading your investments this way is called diversification. A mix of traditional and alternative investments can better position you to achieve your retirement planning and savings goals. If you […]
Private Placements Investing inside of an IRA (2025 Update)
Introduction Private placements remain one of the most powerful but often misunderstood opportunities within a Self-Directed IRA (SDIRA). In 2025, private markets are bigger than ever, with startups, private equity funds, and alternative investments attracting record amounts of capital. With an SDIRA, you can unlock access to these opportunities while still enjoying the tax advantages […]
What Happens to Your Unused Retirement Account Contributions?
Your retirement accounts are your foundation for a secure future. However, changing jobs can raise questions about what happens to your contributions. You might also wonder what happens if you pass away before you retire. Understanding the rules helps you protect your assets and ensure the funds go where you want them to. Fortunately, unused […]
Smart Questions to Help You Choose a Self-Directed IRA Provider
Are you curious about alternative ways to save with your individual retirement account (IRA)? A self-directed IRA (SDIRA) offers the tax advantages of an IRA plus the opportunity to invest in more than just traditional assets like stocks and bonds. SDIRAs require an administrator and custodian. If you’re interested in exploring the possibilities these accounts […]
Getting Started with Cryptocurrency Investing: A Simple Guide
Key Takeaways Investing in Cryptocurrency with a Self-Directed IRA Cryptocurrency is transforming the way people invest, and now it’s presenting new opportunities for retirement planning. A Self-Directed IRA (SDIRA) allows you to invest in cryptocurrencies. You can buy and hold assets like Bitcoin, Ethereum, and Solana. This investment is part of a tax-friendly retirement account. […]
Can You Invest in Cannabis With an IRA?
In the U.S., experts expect the economic impact of regulated cannabis sales to exceed $123.6 billion in 2025, a 9% increase from the previous year. The cannabis market is booming, so why not jump in and invest? Cannabis is in a legal gray area, rendering it susceptible to certain risks, but the rapidly growing market also […]
Self-Directed IRA Rules and FAQs
Saving for retirement in a tax-efficient manner is an important goal, and individual retirement accounts (IRAs) are an established tool for doing so. In contrast to conventional IRAs, which you would usually open with a brokerage or bank, self-directed individual retirement accounts (SDIRAs) require a custodial company. SDIRAs are becoming increasingly popular, especially among those […]
Beneficiaries’ Guide to Inherited IRAs
Inheriting an individual retirement account (IRA) from a loved one or close friend can leave you with some questions. You might not be familiar with how IRAs work if you don’t have an account yourself. Working with a custodian can help you manage the inherited account. However, among all the rules involved, you mainly need […]
5 Reasons to Explore Alternative Assets With Your IRA
Are you looking for new investment strategies to diversify your retirement portfolio? While traditional investments like stocks and bonds have their place, self-directed individual retirement accounts (SDIRAs) unlock alternative assets, offering new avenues for growth. Weighing the potential benefits and understanding the key considerations of these alternative investments is essential for making informed decisions and […]