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 with self-directed IRAs, including how they work, the types of benefits, the advantages of these arrangements and tips on investing. What Is Private Equity Investment?  Private equity i ..read more

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 Contribution Limits Increasing? Yes — in 2024, the IRA contribution limit for Roth and traditional plans increases to $7,000 or $8,000 for contributors 50 or older. These numbers are higher than in 2023, when the contribution limit was $6,500 and $7 ..read more

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 need to know about investing in an easement, from what the most common type of easement is to the benefits of investing in this asset type. What Is an Easement in Real Estate? An easement is a real estate right where an entity can use someone else’s property in e ..read more

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 certain age, participants can cash out their contributions for retirement. While this process sounds easy enough, there are important rules to consider as a 401(k) contributor to avoid unnecessary penalties and missed opportunities. When can you withdraw yo ..read more

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 numerous factors to consider. Being financially ready to retire is a significant contributor. You’ll want a sufficient self-directed individual retirement account (IRA) or another retirement account to ensure ..read more

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: is it worth it? Once you have your individual retirement account set up and you’ve maximized your contributions, lowered your expenses, set up an emergency fund and generally prepared for the un ..read more

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 guide, we’ll explore everything you need to know, including the types of real estate you can buy, different ways you can make the purchase, and the benefits and drawbacks of using a 401(k) for financing. Can I Use a 401(k) to Buy Real Estate?  Yes, y ..read more

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 devaluation. One smart way to invest in precious metals is in an individual retirement account — a self-directed gold and precious metal IRA, to be more precise. Before exploring the kinds of precious metals you can invest in ..read more

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 control over your investments, but the type and frequency of investments will affect each differently. This article examines self-directed IRA vs. IRA LLC  accounts and what to consider before ch ..read more

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 also have more control over how to invest your funds.  In this article, we’ll look at some of the unique investment ideas a self-directed IRA offers you.  Outside-the-Box Investm ..read more