This webinar was a lively session with guest John Schaub, a highly successful real estate investor, who shared his tips for success. Topics covered include the basics of real estate investing, managing properties, working with other investors, and navigating changing market conditions. He also touched on how self-directed Roth IRAs make excellent investing vehicles to generate retirement income from property assets. This was a short webinar lasting about 30 minutes. It’s worth checking out the recorded version, especially for the Q&A session at the end. However, if you prefer reading, you ..read more

Starting in 2024, you can perform a 529 to Roth IRA rollover if you have leftover funds in the education plan. This presents a great way to continue growing and protecting tax-free wealth—turning education funds into retirement funds. However, you must follow specific rules to ensure this transaction is seamless, tax-free, and compliant with IRS regulations. This article explains those rules to help you successfully navigate this transaction. What Is a 529 to Roth IRA Rollover? There are numerous reasons to have leftover money in a 529 plan. And there are multiple ways to repurpose unused 529 ..read more

It is not uncommon to have unused 529 funds. Perhaps the plan’s income was more than the cost of the beneficiary’s education. The beneficiary may have received a scholarship that covered costs or attended a U.S. military school. Maybe the beneficiary chose a career path that didn’t require a college or vocational education. Regardless of the reason, there are tax-free ways to redirect that money, which we cover in this article. First, let’s have a quick review of the rules that govern the use of 529 plan funds. Distributing funds for the wrong reasons causes taxation and penalties, and you wan ..read more

Coverdell education savings accounts (ESAs) are cool little tools that allow you to save and accrue tax-sheltered income for your child’s education. A self-directed account works the same way. So why open a self-directed education savings account? Because self-direction allows you to use alternative investments instead of traditional stocks, bonds, and mutual funds to grow income in the account. Read on to learn what this means. ESA Basics ESAs are commonly established by parents for their children. However, anyone can make contributions, including grandparents and beneficiaries of the account ..read more

Self-directed IRAs and solo 401(k)s allow account owners to use alternative investments to build retirement wealth. Timber investments fall into this asset class, presenting income versatility and portfolio diversification. Additionally, timberland is generally considered a potential hedge against inflation and stock market volatility. This article covers ways to invest in timber, the benefits and risks, and how to invest using a self-directed retirement plan. Types of Timber Investments There are multiple ways to take advantage of the potential timberland presents. Indirect investments These ..read more

Starting a new job involves a careful decision-making process, and your decision to leave one workplace for another is usually well-planned. But did that plan include what to do with old 401(k) funds when you leave one job for another? That’s as important as choosing a job—if you want to retire one day. Don’t leave those funds behind. This article explains ways to reinvest old 401(k) funds after finding new employment. There are a few strategies you can use to ensure that money continues growing to build retirement wealth. Why It’s Important to Know What You Can Do with Old 401(k) Funds How yo ..read more

Well, it’s a common question: How to avoid paying taxes on an inherited IRA? However, the answer largely depends on what type of IRA you inherit. This article explains the basic rules for inherited IRAs (aka beneficiary IRAs) to help you understand how they work and how different beneficiaries can treat these funds. Is Your Inherited IRA a Traditional or Roth Account? In terms of avoiding paying taxes on an inherited IRA, the more accurate question is: Is the inherited IRA a pre-tax or post-tax account? This makes a huge difference. Traditional IRAs and Roth IRAs don’t have the same tax benefi ..read more

If you’re interested in investing in gold and other precious metals, this webinar recap is just for you. Our guest, Greg Allen (founder of Allenhouse Metals), provided an in-depth overview of the precious metals market. The webinar focused on 2024 gold prices and precious metals positions and the potential for investing with an IRA. The full session also discussed the rules and considerations for precious metals in an IRA, as well as the potential impact of economic and market trends on precious metals. Additionally, the webinar covered the following topics: An introduction to investing in ..read more

Regardless of your age, it is crucial to establish a robust financial strategy that incorporates saving for retirement. This article provides 2024 income tax payment dates to be aware of when initiating retirement planning for this year, as well as tactics to conclude your 2023 tax season. You still have time to open and fund some retirement and savings plans and have contributions count towards the 2023 tax year. The information below applies to typical retirement accounts and self-directed retirement plans. Income Tax Payment Dates in 2024 The IRS began accepting 2023 tax returns on January ..read more

Roth IRA tax benefits are excellent but sometimes unclear. Possibly the most asked question from people comparing retirement plan options is, “Do you pay taxes on gains in a Roth IRA?” The simple answer is no. In fact, one of the smartest moves you can make to grow and protect your hard-earned retirement wealth is investing with a Roth IRA. This account is famed for its tax benefits. And it’s favored for other features like the ability to withdraw your contributions at any time—tax and penalty free. When it comes to retirement planning, taxes today and in retirement are a critical factor to co ..read more