Learn how non-recourse financing, personal guarantee restrictions, and potential tax benefits can affect real estate investments held in a Solo 401(k). Explore the key considerations before purchasing property through your self-directed retirement plan.

Did you know the type of retirement account you use to invest in real estate may affect how debt-financed income is taxed? A qualifying Solo 401(k) may offer a financing advantage over an IRA when purchasing investment property with borrowed funds. In this blog, Mountain West IRA explores how leverage works, the potential tax advantages of the real estate debt exception, and the important rules investors should understand before getting started. Discover what to consider when choosing the right retirement account for your real estate investment strategy. 

Learn how a Qualified Charitable Distribution (QCD) is completed, from providing instructions and sending funds to the charity through tax reporting.

The concept behind the most talked-about giving rule of 2026, explained the way a neighbor would explain it. 

Learn how Qualified Charitable Distributions (QCDs) work in 2026, including the $111,000 annual limit, age requirements, eligible charities, deadlines, and QCDs from a self-directed IRA.

Mountain West IRA opened in Boise in April 2006. Two decades later, almost every rule that touches a retirement account has been rewritten at least once. Here is the whole timeline, in plain language, from an Administrator who was open for business on every single one of those days.

Be the Bank: What Private Lending Looks Like Inside a Self-Directed IRA Private lending has quietly grown into a market moving an estimated $70 to $80 billion every year. Here is how self-directed retirement accounts take part, what the IRS rules block, and where an administrator fits in. 

A self-directed IRA gives you room to hold real estate, private notes, and precious metals inside your retirement account, not just stocks and bonds. That freedom comes with a short list of rules. Break one of them and the damage is not a small fine on a single deal. The IRS can treat your entire account as distributed. This guide walks through what prohibited transactions are, who counts as a disqualified person, and what actually happens if a line gets crossed. 

It is one of the most searched questions in the whole self-directed world: can I buy real estate with my IRA? The short answer is yes. A self-directed IRA can own real estate, including rental property, and for people who understand real estate better than the stock market, it is often the reason they open one in the first place. 

Most people think a retirement account is a menu with two items on it: stocks and mutual funds. A self-directed IRA is a different kind of menu. It lets you direct your retirement dollars into alternative assets, and the list of what qualifies gets strange in a hurry. We are talking cattle. Water rights. A billboard on the side of the highway. 

If you work for yourself, you have probably been handed the same short list of retirement choices as everyone else. Open an IRA, set aside a few thousand dollars, pick from a menu of funds, and hope for the best. What almost nobody tells the self-employed is that there is a different account built specifically for a business of one, and it changes the math in a big way. 

Most small business owners have heard of a 401(k) and a regular IRA. Far fewer have heard of the account that sits neatly between them, the SIMPLE IRA. And almost nobody hears about the self-directed version, which is a shame, because it may be the most practical retirement account a small operator or a solo business owner can open. This is a walk through how a self-directed SIMPLE IRA works in 2026: what it is, what it can hold, the numbers, and the two rules that cause the most headaches. Mountain West IRA is a self-directed IRA Administrator based in Boise, Idaho, so this is the account we field questions about every week. 

A plain-English look at the high-limit retirement account built for the self-employed, and what the self-directed version adds.

How a self-directed Roth IRA works in 2026, the 7,500 dollar limit, income phase-outs, the backdoor route, prohibited transactions, and why a Roth has no required minimum distributions.

Not investment, tax, or legal advice. Most people open a traditional IRA, pick a couple of funds, and never look at it again. A self-directed traditional IRA runs off the exact same tax rules as that account. The only thing that changes is the range of assets the account is allowed to hold. Here is what a self-directed traditional IRA is, the 2026 numbers people keep searching for, and the rules that decide what stays compliant. 

Thinking about investing in gold or silver through a Self-Directed IRA? Understanding IRS storage and custody rules is essential. This article explains why IRA-owned precious metals must be held in an approved third-party depository, what metals qualify, common prohibited transactions to avoid, and how distributions work. Learn the key compliance requirements that can help protect your retirement account's tax-advantaged status and avoid costly mistakes.

Many investors are surprised to learn that real estate can be held within a Self-Directed IRA. This article explores seven real estate-related investment options, including residential and commercial properties, raw land, mortgage notes, private REITs, tax lien certificates, and tenants in common (TIC) arrangements. Learn how Self-Directed IRAs work, the key IRS rules that apply to real estate investments, and the important role a custodian plays in administering these accounts. Whether you're new to alternative assets or looking to expand your retirement investment knowledge, this guide provides a valuable educational overview. 

Learn the fundamentals of UDFI and non-recourse financing in a Self-Directed IRA. This educational guide explains how leveraged real estate investments inside retirement accounts may trigger UBIT, why non-recourse loans are required, how prohibited transactions can occur, and what investors should understand before using financing in their IRA. Gain valuable insights to help you navigate the tax and compliance rules surrounding debt-financed real estate investments.

Discover 10 potential benefits of Self-Directed IRAs and Solo 401(k)s, from broader investment choices and diversification to greater control over your retirement strategy. Learn how self-directed retirement accounts can help investors explore alternative assets while maintaining the same tax advantages as traditional retirement plans. Explore the opportunities, responsibilities, and key considerations of investing beyond traditional markets. 

Discover the surprising flexibility of Self-Directed IRAs and explore alternative assets beyond traditional stocks and bonds. From farmland and livestock to tax liens, mineral rights, and royalty interests, this guide highlights unique investment opportunities that may help diversify your retirement strategy. Learn how investor education, due diligence, and IRS compliance play a critical role when investing in non-traditional assets through a Self-Directed IRA. 

Growing your business and thinking about hiring employees? Your Solo 401(k) may need to change sooner than you expect. This blog explains what happens when a Solo 401(k) no longer qualifies, the retirement plan options available for growing businesses, and how to protect your self-directed investments while staying compliant with IRS rules.

Gain full control over your retirement investing with a brokerage account in your Checkbook LLC’s name. This guide walks you through the essential steps, required documents, and key compliance considerations to help you seamlessly extend your Self-Directed IRA into the public markets—so you can invest faster, smarter, and on your own.

A non-recourse loan is a key financing tool for investors using a Self-Directed IRA to purchase real estate. Unlike traditional loans, it is secured solely by the property—meaning the IRA owner is not personally liable. This structure helps maintain compliance with IRS rules, which prohibit personal guarantees within retirement accounts. While non-recourse loans allow for increased purchasing power through leverage, they also come with stricter underwriting standards, larger down payments, and potential tax considerations such as Unrelated Debt-Financed Income (UDFI). Understanding how these loans work is essential for investors looking to use debt responsibly while preserving the tax-advantaged status of their retirement funds.

A Roth IRA offers powerful potential for tax-free retirement income—but only when distribution rules are properly understood and followed. This guide breaks down the essential framework, including ordering rules, the five-year rule, qualified distributions, and Roth conversion timing. It also explains how these rules apply to self-directed accounts holding alternative assets like real estate, precious metals, and cryptocurrency. With no required minimum distributions during the original owner’s lifetime, Roth IRAs provide flexibility, long-term growth potential, and strategic estate planning advantages. Understanding these rules helps protect your wealth, minimize taxes, and support more informed financial decisions.

Understanding how IRA contributions are reported to the IRS is essential for maintaining accurate records and avoiding potential issues. This guide explains what qualifies as a contribution, who reports it, and how IRS Form 5498 is used to track activity. It also covers key timelines, how contributions appear on your tax return, and common reporting mistakes to avoid. Learn how proper coordination between you, your IRA administrator, and your tax professional helps ensure smooth and compliant retirement account reporting.

A smarter retirement strategy starts with the right tools. SEP IRAs are designed specifically for business owners, offering the ability to contribute more during strong years, reduce administrative complexity, and decide contributions when your financial picture is clear. It’s a flexible, efficient way to grow your retirement savings while staying focused on running and expanding your business. 

Marketing professionals are experts at analyzing trends, evaluating opportunities, and making data-driven decisions. A Self-Directed IRA allows you to apply those same skills to your retirement strategy by expanding your investment options beyond traditional stocks and mutual funds. With the ability to invest in assets such as real estate, private placements, cryptocurrency, promissory notes, and precious metals, a Self-Directed IRA offers greater control over how your retirement funds are allocated. While the account follows the same IRS rules as other IRAs, it gives you the flexibility to invest in areas where your knowledge and experience can make a meaningful difference.

Did you know your IRA may be able to do more than invest in stocks and mutual funds? With a Self-Directed IRA, your retirement account can participate in private lending through promissory notes, allowing your IRA to act as the lender. Learn how private lending works, the IRS rules involved, and what to consider before using this strategy to diversify your retirement investments.

Can you use your retirement account to invest in rental property? In this guide, we explain how Self-Directed IRAs can hold real estate under IRS rules, what types of properties may qualify, and the compliance requirements investors must understand. Learn the structure, risks, and planning considerations before getting started.

If you’ve ever been told your IRA custodian can’t give tax advice, you’re not alone — and there’s a good reason. Custodians and administrators are responsible for processing transactions, maintaining records, and ensuring IRS compliance, but they are not licensed to provide tax or investment advice. Understanding the difference between education and advice is key to protecting your Self-Directed IRA: your custodian explains how the account works, while qualified tax professionals and financial advisors evaluate the tax impact and overall strategy based on your unique situation. With the right team in place, you can make informed decisions and confidently take control of your retirement planning. 

When investing in alternative assets through a Self-Directed IRA, understanding cash flow is critical. Income generated by IRA-owned assets must flow directly back into the IRA, and expenses must be paid from the IRA to maintain compliance with IRS rules. This overview explains the difference between cash flow and distributions, how various assets generate income, and why liquidity planning matters. Always consult with a qualified tax or financial professional before making retirement account decisions. 

Understanding disqualified person rules is essential for anyone investing through a Self-Directed IRA. These IRS regulations are designed to prevent self-dealing and improper personal benefit, and even an innocent mistake can result in taxes, penalties, or the loss of your IRA’s tax-advantaged status. This overview explains who is considered a disqualified person, who is not, and why these rules matter—helping you protect your retirement assets and invest with confidence. 

Due diligence is a critical part of successful Self-Directed IRA investing. This article explains what due diligence means, why it matters when investing retirement funds, and how to evaluate alternative assets with confidence. Learn the key steps, common red flags to avoid, and how Mountain West IRA supports education and compliance—so you can make informed, responsible decisions with your retirement savings.

Understanding how to move your IRA assets is essential to avoiding unnecessary taxes and penalties. This article explains the key differences between IRA-to-IRA rollovers and direct custodian-to-custodian transfers, including IRS limitations, timing requirements, and why transfers are often the safer option. Learn how to stay compliant, reduce risk, and make informed decisions when repositioning your retirement funds.

Required Minimum Distributions (RMDs) can be more complex when your Self-Directed IRA holds alternative assets like real estate, private placements, promissory notes, or precious metals. This educational overview explains how RMD rules apply, why advance planning is critical for illiquid investments, and the strategies investors can use to stay compliant while preserving long-term retirement goals.

SECURE 2.0 expanded valuable tax credits to include Solo 401(k) plans with automatic enrollment. Eligible self-employed individuals and small business owners may qualify for up to $1,500 in tax credits while strengthening their retirement strategy. Learn how automatic enrollment works, how it applies to self-directed Solo 401(k) and SIMPLE IRA.

The IRS has announced the official 2026 contribution limits for IRAs, employer-sponsored retirement plans, and Health Savings Accounts (HSAs). These updates include higher contribution caps, expanded catch-up and super catch-up opportunities, and important deadline considerations—especially for self-employed individuals and those nearing retirement. This overview breaks down what’s changed and how to take advantage of increased tax-advantaged savings opportunities for 2026 and beyond. 

Prior-year IRA contributions can be a powerful retirement planning tool—but the rules are often misunderstood, especially for Self-Directed IRA investors. This article breaks down the most common mistakes investors make when funding an SDIRA for a prior tax year, including missed deadlines, incorrect tax-year designations, earned income requirements, and over-contributions. Learn how to stay compliant, avoid IRS penalties, and better time your contributions when investing in alternative assets through a Self-Directed IRA.

Spousal IRA contributions allow a working spouse to fund an IRA for a non-working or lower-earning partner—helping couples continue growing their retirement nest egg during career breaks, caregiving years, or other low-income periods. With the same contribution limits as regular IRAs, the option to fund either Traditional or Roth IRAs, and full compatibility with Self-Directed IRAs, this strategy offers flexibility and long-term benefits.

Our latest guide breaks down the advantages of checkbook control, popular alternative assets investors often explore, and the critical compliance rules every account holder must understand. From real estate and private lending to crypto, precious metals, and tax liens, learn how an IRA-owned LLC can give you greater speed and flexibility—while still operating within IRS guidelines. Whether you’re new to Self-Directed IRAs or looking to expand your knowledge, this resource helps you navigate opportunities, responsibilities, and key restrictions with confidence. 

Alternative investments can offer powerful diversification for your retirement portfolio, but they also require careful analysis and compliance with IRS rules. Before adding any asset to your Self-Directed IRA, it’s essential to understand how the investment works, assess its risks, perform thorough due diligence, and ensure it can be properly administered within an IRA structure. Because SDIRA administrators cannot provide tax, legal, or investment advice, working with qualified professionals is key to protecting your account and long-term strategy. With the right preparation and guidance, alternative assets can be a valuable part of your retirement plan. 

Understanding your distribution options is essential—especially when your IRA holds illiquid assets like property. From using rental income to meet RMDs, to taking in-kind distributions, restructuring the investment, or exploring Roth conversions, several strategies can help you stay compliant while maintaining your long-term goals. Mountain West IRA provides guidance on the administrative requirements for managing real estate in an IRA, including proper titling, valuations, and distribution processing. Our team helps ensure your Self-Directed IRA stays aligned with IRS rules and your retirement strategy. 

Once you reach age 73, the IRS requires you to begin taking Required Minimum Distributions (RMDs) from certain retirement accounts. These withdrawals ensure tax-deferred funds eventually become taxable. Our guide explains when RMDs start, how they’re calculated, and what rules apply to different account types — from IRAs to 401(k)s. You’ll also learn how to avoid costly penalties and plan your withdrawals strategically. At Mountain West IRA, we help you take control of your retirement through Self-Directed IRAs and Solo 401(k)s, giving you the flexibility to invest in assets that align with your goals. 

Not all precious metals dealers operate with the same transparency or integrity. Before adding gold or silver to your Self-Directed IRA, it’s essential to verify a dealer’s reputation, understand pricing structures, and stay IRS-compliant. Learn how to spot red flags—like inflated premiums, “special” coins, or high-pressure sales tactics—and make informed decisions that protect your retirement investments.

Wondering if you can move a property you already own into your Self-Directed IRA? According to IRS rules, that’s considered self-dealing — a prohibited transaction that could put your retirement savings at risk. In this article, we break down Self-Directed IRA rules, explain what counts as self-dealing, and identify disqualified persons you must avoid. You’ll also learn the correct way to buy real estate with your IRA while staying fully compliant. Discover how to protect your investments, follow IRS guidelines, and build long-term retirement wealth the right way. 

Looking to diversify your retirement portfolio beyond traditional stocks and bonds? Discover how a Self-Directed IRA (SDIRA) can help you invest in real estate—from rental properties and commercial buildings to tax liens and REITs. Learn about 7 powerful options you can hold in your SDIRA to grow wealth with more control and flexibility. 

When it comes to retirement planning, protecting your savings is just as important as growing them. In this article, we compare how different retirement accounts—like Solo 401(k)s, Traditional and Roth IRAs, SEP, and SIMPLE IRAs—are protected from creditors and bankruptcy. Learn the key differences between federal and state protections, and how to make informed decisions about where to hold your retirement assets. 

Explore why Roth 401(k)s are a game-changer for high-income earners. This blog covers key differences between Roth 401(k)s, Roth IRAs, Self-Directed accounts, and Solo 401(k)s—plus updated 2025 contribution limits and strategy tips.

Cryptocurrency is no longer just a trend — it's a growing part of many investors' long-term strategies. In this blog, we break down what crypto is, how blockchain technology works, and why a Self-Directed IRA (SDIRA) can be a smart way to include digital assets like Bitcoin and Ethereum in your retirement plan. Learn how Mountain West IRA makes it easy to diversify your IRA with alternative investments while staying IRS-compliant. 

Avoiding the 10% IRA Early Withdrawal Penalty: Exceptions You Should Know Early withdrawals from your IRA typically come with a 10% penalty—but there are important exceptions that may allow you to access your funds without the extra cost. In this article, we break down the most common scenarios where the IRS waives the penalty, including disability, first-time home purchases, education expenses, medical needs, and more. Understanding these rules can help you make informed financial decisions while protecting your retirement savings.

Discover how a Self-Directed IRA can give you more freedom and flexibility in retirement planning. From real estate to cryptocurrency, explore alternative investments that go beyond Wall Street and put you in control of your financial future.

Thinking about adding Bitcoin or Ethereum to your retirement plan? Discover how the IRS treats cryptocurrency in an IRA, the tax advantages it can offer, and the compliance rules you can’t afford to overlook. See why a Self-Directed IRA could be the smarter way to diversify with crypto.

Discover how to partner your Self-Directed IRA with personal funds to unlock larger investment opportunities. Learn the rules, compliance requirements, and practical examples to ensure your partnership stays IRS-compliant and works toward your retirement goals.

Investing in cryptocurrency through a Self-Directed IRA offers exciting growth potential — but it also comes with unique rules and responsibilities. Learn why working with an experienced custodian, CPA, and financial advisor is essential for staying IRS-compliant, building a smart strategy, and even buying crypto directly in your IRA without an LLC.

Looking to diversify your retirement portfolio beyond traditional stocks and bonds? Discover six powerful alternative assets you can invest in with a Self-Directed IRA (SDIRA)—including real estate, private loans, cryptocurrency, and more. This blog breaks down the unique opportunities SDIRAs offer, along with important IRS guidelines to keep in mind. Whether you're looking to take more control or simply invest in what you know best, this guide is your starting point.

Understanding Rollovers and Transfers: What’s the Difference? When it comes to moving money between retirement accounts, the method you choose matters. This blog breaks down the key differences between Indirect Rollovers, Direct Rollovers, and IRA-to-IRA Transfers—highlighting the tax implications, rules, and best use cases for each. Whether you're consolidating IRAs or moving funds from an old 401(k), understanding these options can help you avoid costly mistakes and keep your retirement strategy on track.

Can You Hold Cryptocurrency in a Self-Directed IRA? Yes, you can! Adding digital assets like Bitcoin and Ethereum to your Self-Directed IRA is a powerful way to diversify your retirement portfolio. Learn the IRS rules, tax advantages, and compliance requirements before you invest. Discover how Mountain West IRA can help you securely add cryptocurrency to your retirement strategy.

Thinking about partnering your Self-Directed IRA with personal funds, a spouse, or another investor? It’s a powerful strategy to access larger investments and diversify your portfolio—but it must be done right. In this blog, we cover 7 essential things to know before partnering your SDIRA, from ownership rules to compliance requirements. Learn how to leverage this strategy while staying within IRS guidelines.

Understanding EDB, NDB, and NEDB: What to Know When Inheriting an IRA Inheriting an IRA can be a valuable financial opportunity—but it comes with complex rules. This blog breaks down the different beneficiary classifications under the SECURE Act, including Eligible Designated Beneficiaries (EDBs), Non-Eligible Designated Beneficiaries (NEDBs), and Non-Designated Beneficiaries (NDBs). Learn how each status affects your distribution options, timelines, and tax responsibilities so you can make informed decisions and avoid costly mistakes.

Worried the Economy Will Hit Your Retirement? Take Control with a Self-Directed IRA In today’s unpredictable economy, traditional retirement accounts may not offer the security or flexibility investors need. This blog explores how a Self-Directed IRA (SDIRA) can help you diversify beyond stocks and mutual funds, take control of your investment strategy, and build a more resilient retirement portfolio. Discover the benefits of investing in alternative assets like real estate, precious metals, and private loans—while still enjoying powerful tax advantages.

When planning for retirement, choosing between a pre-tax IRA and a Roth IRA can significantly impact your long-term financial strategy. This blog breaks down the fundamental differences between the two—how they’re taxed, who they benefit, and when withdrawals are required. Whether you’re looking for immediate tax savings or tax-free income in retirement, understanding these options is key to making the right choice for your future.

Understanding how IRA contributions work is key to maximizing your retirement savings. This guide breaks down who can contribute, 2025 contribution limits, tax advantages of Traditional vs. Roth IRAs, and how Self-Directed IRAs open the door to alternative investments like real estate and private lending. Whether you're just starting or refining your strategy, this is a must-read for anyone serious about building long-term financial security.

Confused about retirement accounts? This blog breaks down the key differences between Traditional IRAs, 401(k)s, and Roth IRAs—covering who can contribute, tax benefits, withdrawal rules, and more. Whether you're looking to lower your current tax bill, grow your savings tax-free, or explore alternative investments through Self-Directed accounts, this guide helps you choose the right path for your retirement goals.

If you’ve inherited an Individual Retirement Account (IRA) or are planning your estate, you need to understand how the Inherited IRA 10-Year Rule affects your financial future. Introduced by the SECURE Act of 2019, this rule significantly changed how non-spouse beneficiaries manage inherited IRAs, requiring complete withdrawal of funds within 10 years of the original owner’s passing.

A trust cannot own an IRA during your lifetime, but it can be named as beneficiary. Here's how it works, why it matters for estate planning, and what to consider before you decide.

Planning for retirement is essential, and an Individual Retirement Account (IRA) is one way to save for the future. IRAs offer tax advantages that can help grow your retirement savings over time, making them a valuable tool for long-term financial security. Understanding how IRAs work, the different types available, and the 2025 contribution limits will help you make informed decisions about your retirement savings.

When planning for retirement, it’s common to hear about annuities and IRAs, but they serve very different purposes. Understanding the difference can help you make the right choice for your financial future. An annuity is a financial product issued by an insurance company that provides a stream of income, often for life or a set period. It can be purchased with after-tax money or through a tax-advantaged account like an IRA. The primary benefit of an annuity is its ability to provide guaranteed payments, making it an attractive option for those looking for financial security in retirement.

Self-dealing in the context of an IRA, including a Self-Directed IRA (SDIRA), refers to engaging in prohibited transactions that involve the IRA owner, their family members, or certain related parties. The rules governing self-dealing are designed to prevent individuals from using their IRA funds for personal benefit outside the purpose of saving for retirement.

When most people think of Individual Retirement Accounts (IRAs), they imagine investments in stocks, bonds, and mutual funds. However, there is another powerful option that can diversify your portfolio and open doors to alternative investments: Self-Directed IRAs (SDIRAs). These accounts enable you to diversify your portfolio, holding real estate and other tangible assets, provided you follow specific rules.

When it comes to retirement savings, Self-Directed IRAs (SDIRAs) provide investors with the flexibility to diversify their portfolios beyond traditional stocks and bonds. However, not all SDIRAs are the same. A SEP Self-Directed IRA and a Traditional Self-Directed IRA share some similarities but differ in terms of eligibility, contribution limits, and who can fund them.

When facing financial challenges or large expenses, tapping into your 401(k) as a source of funds can seem like an attractive option. With quick access to cash and no impact on your credit score, borrowing against your retirement savings might feel like a smart short-term solution. However, this decision comes with risks that could affect your long-term financial security.

Explore how prior-year IRA contributions can help you maximize your retirement savings even after the calendar year ends. This guide explains how the contribution window works, key deadlines, 2025 and 2026 limits, and important eligibility rules for Traditional and Roth IRAs. Learn how to properly designate contributions and how Self-Directed IRA investors can use this strategy to increase investment potential across real estate, private lending, and alternative assets. 

Inheriting an Individual Retirement Account (IRA) can be a significant financial event, but when a trust or estate is designated as the beneficiary, the administration and payout process can become complex. Understanding the post-death administration process, payout rules, and tax implications is crucial for those managing inherited IRAs through a trust or estate.

When it comes to planning for retirement, choosing the right Individual Retirement Account (IRA) can be one of the most impactful decisions you make. Your choice depends on your financial situation, goals, and investment preferences. Below, we explore the key features of different types of IRAs to help you make an informed decision.

Learn the key rules for taking distributions from your Roth IRA or Roth 401(k). Understand the 5-year rule, tax-free withdrawal qualifications, early withdrawal penalties, and exceptions. Get insights on rollovers, conversions, and required minimum distributions to make informed retirement decisions.

Individual Retirement Accounts (IRAs) are a powerful tool for retirement savings, offering tax advantages that help individuals build wealth for their golden years. While today’s investors have access to various types of IRAs—including Traditional IRAs, Roth IRAs, SEP and Simple IRAs. These accounts didn’t always exist. Their introduction was a response to growing concerns over retirement security, and they have evolved significantly over the decades. In this blog post, we’ll explore the origins of IRAs, their evolution, and why they continue to play a crucial role in retirement planning.

The SECURE 2.0 Act brings significant changes to retirement planning, particularly for individuals aged 60 to 63. These changes aim to help workers boost their retirement savings during critical pre-retirement years. Let’s explore what’s new for Solo 401(k) and SIMPLE plan participants starting in 2025.

Roth IRA and Traditional IRA contributions are two types of individual retirement accounts that offer tax advantages for retirement savings. While they have some similarities, there are key differences, including how contributions are treated.

Self-directed IRAs (SDIRAs) offer incredible flexibility for diversifying your retirement portfolio with alternative assets. But what happens if you need to access some of the funds in your account? Can you take an early distribution from your self-directed IRA? The answer is yes—but there are important considerations to keep in mind.

Individual Retirement Accounts (IRAs) are a cornerstone of retirement planning for many Americans, offering significant tax advantages. However, it is essential to understand how distributions from these accounts are taxed to avoid surprises during retirement. Below, we break down the tax implications of IRA distributions based on the type of IRA you hold.

When exploring the world of retirement planning, one common question is whether Self-Directed IRAs (SDIRAs) are subject to the rules and regulations outlined in the Employee Retirement Income Security Act (ERISA). This is a critical consideration for investors looking to diversify their portfolios with alternative assets, such as real estate or promissory notes, through an SDIRA. Understanding the relationship between SDIRAs and ERISA can help ensure compliance and alignment with your financial objectives.

‍Self-Directed Individual Retirement Accounts (SDIRAs) are powerful tools for those seeking to diversify their retirement portfolios beyond traditional investments. With SDIRAs, you can invest in alternative assets such as, but not limited to, real estate, private equity, and promissory notes. While IRAs offer flexibility, they come with specific rules and requirements, one of the most important being Required Minimum Distributions (RMDs). Understanding how RMDs work is essential to avoiding penalties and ensuring your retirement strategy stays on track.

No, you generally cannot place precious metals that you personally own into your IRA. The IRS has strict rules about what types of assets can be held in an IRA, including specific requirements for precious metals.

Retirement planning often revolves around traditional investment vehicles like stocks, bonds, and mutual funds. But for those looking to break free from the limitations and volatility of conventional options, a Self-Directed IRA (SDIRA) offers an exciting opportunity to diversify and take greater control of their retirement portfolio.

When investing with a Self-Directed IRA (SDIRA), it’s essential to understand the concept of prohibited transactions and disqualified persons. These terms define specific rules set by the IRS to prevent IRA owners from benefiting improperly from their retirement assets. Violating these rules can lead to significant tax consequences, so let’s explore what they entail.

When considering diversifying your retirement portfolio with precious metals through a Self-Directed IRA (SDIRA), it’s essential to understand the specific requirements for which metals qualify. The IRS has stringent guidelines on the purity and authenticity of metals to be eligible for inclusion in an IRA.

Funding an IRA is straightforward, but understanding the options available—whether by transfer, rollover, contribution, or conversion—can help ensure you maximize the benefits while staying tax-efficient. Here’s a breakdown of each method.

Planning for retirement can feel like navigating a maze of account types, contribution limits, and tax implications. The IRA, or Individual Retirement Account, is a fundamental tool to help individuals save for retirement. Here, we break down the essentials of retirement plans and their various types to help you understand how each might fit into your retirement strategy.

SIMPLE stands for Savings Incentive Match Plan for Employees, and it offers a streamlined way for employers to make contributions for themselves and their employees. With fewer rules and simpler administration than many other retirement plans, SIMPLE IRAs have fewer regulatory requirements compared to other retirement plans, making them an option for small businesses.

Self-directed IRAs (SDIRAs) offer an expansive range of opportunities for diversifying retirement portfolios, with real estate assets standing out as a prime choice for many. While the options are nearly limitless—encompassing everything from residential to commercial properties and even vacant land—it’s crucial for investors to stay informed and compliant with IRS regulations. Failure to do so could lead to hefty penalties, which can derail retirement plans.

Whether for retirement, a vacation, their children’s college, etc., they have the right habits to turn savings goals into a reality. What is their secret?

If you're self-employed or a small business owner with no full-time employees, the Solo 401(k) (also known as an Individual 401(k)) could be the ideal retirement savings plan for you. With high contribution limits, tax advantages, and flexibility, the Solo 401(k) allows you to take control of your retirement savings. Here's everything you need to know about this powerful retirement account.

In this post, we’ll explore three crucial elements that every IRA holder should be familiar with—especially those utilizing SDIRAs—to make informed decisions and maximize their retirement benefits. From Required Minimum Distributions (RMDs) to properly valuing assets and planning your estate, understanding these essentials can help pave the way to a financially secure retirement.

In the first part of our series on Individual (k) accounts we discussed who can have one, and all of the great benefits to starting up an Individual K account. But now that you have one, do you understand what your options really are? Do you know what steps to take to get the most benefit out of this incredible tool?

Did you know that if you have not contributed to your Roth IRA for the 2024 tax year, you can still contribute up to Tax Day 2025 if you are eligible?

Many people assume that their will or trust is enough to ensure that their money goes where they want it to when they pass away. However, when it comes to retirement accounts, annuities, or even life insurance policies, the person listed on your Beneficiary Designation Form will inherit that asset, even if that is no longer your intention.

Many people are unaware that they can use their individual retirement account (IRA) to invest in more than traditional options like stocks, bonds, and mutual funds. In fact, with a Self-Directed IRA, investors can tap into a much broader range of assets to grow their retirement savings. This flexibility opens the door to opportunities that go beyond the usual offerings, empowering investors to take control of their financial future.

A Roth 401(k) is a powerful retirement savings tool that combines the benefits of a traditional 401(k) with the tax advantages of a Roth IRA. If you're considering contributing to a Roth 401(k) or already have one, it's important to understand how this type of account works and how it differs from other retirement savings options. Here are four key things you should know about Roth 401(k) accounts.

For high-income earners, saving for retirement using a Roth IRA can be a bit tricky due to income limits that restrict direct contributions. But don’t worry — there’s a clever workaround known as the Backdoor Roth IRA. This strategy allows individuals to take advantage of the tax benefits of a Roth IRA, even if their income exceeds the IRS limits. Here's how it works.

When it comes to saving for retirement, small business owners and self-employed individuals have unique challenges. Traditional employer-sponsored retirement plans like 401(k)s can be costly and complex to manage. Fortunately, there are simpler, more cost-effective options designed specifically for small businesses: SEP and SIMPLE IRAs. These retirement plans offer flexibility and benefits tailored to the needs of small business owners.