mountain west ira

Checkbook Control in a Self-Directed IRA

What is A Checkbook in a self-directed IRA?

A Checkbook IRA is a self-directed IRA that owns an LLC, with you serving as the manager of that LLC. Because the LLC holds its own business bank account, you gain “checkbook control,” the ability to make approved investments directly by writing a check or sending a wire rather than submitting paperwork for each transaction. The IRA still owns the LLC, and all activity must remain for the exclusive benefit of the IRA.

Why investors choose this asset?

How Checkbook works in your Self-Directed IRA

How do I open a self-directed IRA for Private Lending?

To open a self-directed IRA, complete the online application for your account type, fund it by transfer, rollover, or contribution, then submit a Purchase Kit directing Mountain West IRA to buy the property on behalf of your IRA.

1.
Open your self-directed IRA — complete the online application (Traditional, Roth, SEP, SIMPLE, Individual 401(k), or HSA). Prefer to sign electronically? Email accounts@mwira.com or call (866) 377-3311 and we'll send your application for e-signature.
Traditional IRA Starter Kit
Roth IRA Starter Kit
SEP Starter Kit
SIMPLE IRA Starter Kit
Precious Metals Foreign Currency Starter Kit
Individual 401(k) Plan Starter Kit
Health Savings Account (HSA) Starter Kit
Traditional IRA Starter Kit
Roth IRA Starter Kit
SEP Starter Kit
SIMPLE IRA Starter Kit
Precious Metals Foreign Currency Starter Kit
Individual 401(k) Plan Starter Kit
Health Savings Account (HSA) Starter Kit
2.
Fund the account — transfer from another IRA, roll over a 401(k) or employer plan, or make an annual contribution.
3.
Direct your investment — complete a Purchase Kit (Direction of Investment) and sign your documents as “Read and Approved.” An Authorized Signer at Mountain West IRA then signs on behalf of your IRA and funds the transaction.
4.
Manage & grow — all income and expenses flow through your IRA, with online access and support.

Speed comes with responsibility

The Checkbook IRA Guide covers how your IRA forms and funds an LLC you manage, how the LLC's bank account lets you move on time-sensitive deals directly, and what shifts onto you when the per-transaction review goes away. Opening an account takes about 15 minutes when you're ready.

By downloading this guide, you agree to receive occasional emails from us. You can unsubscribe at any time. Read our Terms

Rules & What to Know in your LLC IRA

Why Mountain West IRA

Why Mountain West IRA

Trusted since 2006: In business since 2006, serving 3,400+ clients with more than $1 billion in self- directed retirement assets under administration.
Administrator model: A self-directed IRA Administrator and record-keeper — passive and client-directed. Never a Custodian or advisor.
Fast processing: Efficient turnaround with an expedited option when you need to move quickly.
Real education: A deep library of guides, videos, and webinars, plus a Transfer & Rollover guide.
Personal service: A responsive, US-based team and one-on-one consultations.

Frequently Asked Questions

What is a Checkbook IRA?

A Checkbook IRA is a self-directed IRA that owns an LLC in which you act as manager. The LLC has its own bank account, giving you “checkbook control” to make approved investments directly, while the IRA remains the owner and all activity must benefit the IRA. Mountain West IRA administers the account and handles recordkeeping; it does not provide investment advice.

What are the risks of a Checkbook IRA?

Checkbook control places day-to-day compliance in your hands, so an inadvertent prohibited transaction or commingling of funds can jeopardize the IRA's tax status. Because of this added responsibility, set up and operate the structure carefully and review it with your financial advisor and tax professional.

Explore Our Education Across Every Platform

From in-depth YouTube tutorials and blog articles to bite-sized tips on TikTok, Instagram, Facebook, and Threads, we share knowledge wherever you are.

Contact With Our Team
Blogs
Read expert articles and how-to guides on Real Estate for practical tips and insights.
IconIcon
YouTube
Watch step-by-step video tutorials explaining Real Estate from start to finish.
IconIcon
Facebook
Join our community for live updates, events, and Real Estate discussions.
IconIcon
TikTok
Discover quick, easy-to-follow Real Estate tips in short-form videos.
IconIcon
Instagram
See visual guides, behind-the-scenes content, and Real Estate highlights.
IconIcon
Threads
Follow real-time conversations and quick takes on Real Estate trends.
IconIcon

Mountain West IRA is a self-directed IRA Administrator and record-keeper and does not provide investment, tax, or legal advice. All information is general in nature. Investors should check with their own financial advisor, tax professional, or attorney about their exact situation before making any investment.