Self Directed IRA

A Self-Directed IRA is a retirement account that grants investors the freedom to choose from a wide range of alternative investments, including real estate, private equity, precious metals, and more, providing greater control over their retirement portfolio.

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Self-Directed IRA vs Regular Brokerage IRA

In the realm of retirement planning, selecting the right Individual Retirement Account (IRA) is pivotal to achieving your financial objectives. This blog post explores two prominent choices: the Self-Directed IRA (SDIRA) and the traditional brokerage IRA. Delving into their distinctions equips you with the knowledge to make informed decisions tailored to your retirement savings goals. Discover why opting for a Self-Directed IRA could significantly bolster your retirement strategy.

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Benefits of a Self-Directed IRA LLC

To maximize your allowable IRA investments, it is essential to have a retirement plan that allows you to select your own alternative IRA investments.

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RISE Act Will Drastically Impact Self-Directed IRAs

Most people are interested in saving money for retirement.

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Who Is a Disqualified Person and Why It Matters

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. 

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Self-Directed SEP IRA for Business Owners How It Works in 2026

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

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Self-Directed IRAs and Prior-Year Contributions: What Investors Usually Miss

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.

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SEP Self-Directed IRA vs. Traditional Self-Directed IRA: Key Differences

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.

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Self-Directed SIMPLE IRA The Small-Business Account That Gives You More Options (2026 Guide)

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. 

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Self Directed IRAs and Real Estate Investments

Although the options are nearly unlimited when investing in real estate with a self directed IRA, it is extremely important to understand and follow the IRS guidelines to avoid hefty penalties for violations.

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Prohibited Transactions The Rules That Quietly Blow Up a Self-Directed IRA

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. 

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Qualified Charitable Distributions (QCDs) in 2026: A Guide for IRA Owners

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.

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Private Lending with Your IRA

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.

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7 Real Estate Options You Can Hold in a Self-Directed IRA

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. 

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How to Open a Brokerage Account in the Name of Your Checkbook LLC

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.

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Weird Things a Self-Directed IRA Can Own (and What It Can't)

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. 

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Investing Your Self Direct IRA In A Start Up Business

Many people dream of starting small businesses or starting a new venture but fear using traditional small business financing or taking out loans with high interest rates.

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Unlocking the Power of Self-Directed IRAs

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.

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Why Professional Guidance Matters When Buying Crypto with a Self-Directed IRA

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.

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Worried the Economy Will Hit Your Retirement? Take Control with a Self-Directed IRA

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.

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What Is a Qualified Charitable Distribution The 2026 Rules in Plain English

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

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Self-Directed IRAs and Real Estate

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.

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Alt Assets 101 - Why Alternative Assets

Let’s get the obvious question out of the way first. What is an alternative investment?

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Understanding Prohibited Transactions and Disqualified Persons in Self-Directed IRAs

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.

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No Income Limits for Roth 401(k)s: What That Means for Your Retirement Strategy

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.

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What is a K-1 for a Self-Directed IRA for?

A K-1 form is essential for a Self-Directed IRA to report income, deductions, and credits from its investments in partnerships, S corporations, estates, or trusts. These entities typically pass through their income or losses to their partners or shareholders, including the IRA. The K-1 helps in tracking the IRA's share of these financial activities, determining potential tax liabilities such as Unrelated Business Income Tax (UBIT), and reporting the IRA's Fair Market Valuation (FMV) accurately.

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Exploring Cryptocurrency in a Self-Directed IRA

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. 

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Approaching RMD Age with Real Estate in Your Self-Directed IRA: Options to Consider

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. 

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What is self-dealing with your IRA, and what are the consequences?

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.

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Benefits Of Self-Directed Checkbook IRA

To maximize your allowable IRA investments, it is essential to have a retirement plan that allows you to select your own alternative IRA investments.

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How to Make a Qualified Charitable Distribution (QCD): Step by Step

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

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Understanding Self-Directed IRAs and Required Minimum Distributions (RMDs)

‍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.

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Private Lending With a Self-Directed IRA: How to Be the Bank (2026 Guide)

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. 

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Self Directed IRA Investment Ideas: Bed and Breakfast

Even in a sluggish economy, bed-and-breakfasts are a popular choice for tourists seeking lodging off the beaten path.

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Acquiring Private Stock in a Self-Directed IRA

Private stock refers to company shares that are not traded on public stock exchanges. Private companies typically offer these shares, ranging from small startups to larger established firms.

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What is a Self-Directed IRA?

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.

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Due Diligence - Your Foundation for Smart Self-Directed IRA Decisions

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.

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7 Real Estate Investment Options for Your Self-Directed IRA

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. 

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Can You Hold Cryptocurrency in a Self-Directed IRA?

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.

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Don’t Let the Market Dictate Your Retirement: Diversify with a Self-Directed IRA

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.

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10 Potential Benefits of Self-Directing your Retirement Accounts

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. 

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7 Things to Know About Partnering Your Self-Directed IRA

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.

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Benefits and Challenges of a Self-Directed IRA LLC

Maximizing your IRA investments often requires a retirement plan that allows for diversification into alternative investments. A self-directed IRA enables you to invest in what you know best, offering the flexibility to diversify into real estate, private stock, notes, mortgages, partnerships, and joint ventures, within the constraints of IRS rules.

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Using Leverage To Purchase Real Estate

Over time, real estate investments have afforded many people the powerful combination of appreciation and income.

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Exploring the World of Self-Directed IRAs

Discover the potential of Self-Directed Individual Retirement Accounts (IRAs) in expanding your investment horizons beyond traditional stocks and bonds. A Self-Directed IRA allows you to diversify your retirement portfolio by investing in a broader range of assets, offering flexibility and control over your savings. Delve into the complexities of alternative investments within your Self-Directed IRA with our guide, featuring essential steps and considerations to navigate this dynamic financial landscape effectively.

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Understanding UDFI and Non-Recourse Financing in Your Self-Directed IRA

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.

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Alternative Assets You Can Invest in with a Self-Directed IRA

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.

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Are Self-Directed IRAs Subject to ERISA

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.

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7 Tips For New Investors

While self-directed IRAs offer a wealth of investment possibilities, getting started with investing can be a daunting task for new investors.

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Self-Directed Traditional IRA: The 2026 Rules, Limits, and What You Can Actually Hold

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. 

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Can You Cash Out Your Self-Directed IRA?

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.

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Self-Directed IRAs for Marketing Professionals

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.

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Understanding Self-Dealing

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. 

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Understanding Self-Directed IRAs: Answers to 7 Common Questions

Self-Directed IRAs (SDIRAs) have become increasingly popular among investors seeking greater control over their retirement funds and the ability to diversify their investment portfolios. However, many people still have questions about how these accounts work and whether they are the right choice for their financial goals. In this post, we will answer seven common questions about SDIRAs to help you make an informed decision.

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Visualize your Future: The Surprising Tool That Boosts Retirement Planning and IRA Savings

Ever wonder what you’ll see in the mirror in another 10 or 20 years? This service of having your image aged is now available online and offline.

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Unique Alternative Assets for Self-Directed IRAs

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. 

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What Is a Non-Recourse Loan

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.

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How Cash Flow Works Inside a Self-Directed IRA

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. 

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Rolling Over Your Defined Benefit Plan

A defined benefit plan promises a specified monthly benefit at retirement.

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Frequently Asked Questions

Are self-directed IRAs commonly used?

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Can I consolidate multiple self-directed IRA accounts?

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How long does it take to establish and fund a self-directed IRA?

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I own a small business. What self-directed retirement plan options are available for my business?

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Ready to open a self-directed IRA at Mountain West IRA?

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What are Required Minimum Distributions (RMDs)?

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What are the potential benefits of a self-directed IRA?

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What fees are associated with a self-directed IRA?

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What happens to my self-directed IRA when I die?

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What is the difference between a self-directed IRA and a traditional IRA?

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What types of accounts can be self-directed?

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Why is an administrator needed for a self-directed IRA?

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Explore More With a Self-Directed IRA

A self-directed IRA allows you to choose from a broader range of allowable alternative assets, including real estate, promissory notes, precious metals, and more.

Mountain West IRA provides the administrative and recordkeeping services to support your account and process transactions at your direction.

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