A Clear Guide to Self‑Directed Retirement Investing
Download our Self‑Directed IRA guide to understand your options, key rules, and how alternative investments work inside a retirement account.
- How Self-Directed IRAs work and who they're for
- Types of alternative assets you can invest in
- How to open, fund, and manage an account
- Key IRS rules to know before investing
Get Your Free Guide
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What You'll Get Inside the Guide
This guide delivers a clear, practical breakdown of how self-directed retirement investing actually works, what the IRS requires, and how to structure your account correctly from day one so you can move forward with clarity and confidence.
Inside, you'll discover:
- How Self-Directed IRAs work and which retirement account structure fits your goals
- What alternative assets you can invest in and how they function inside a retirement account
- The IRS rules that matter most, including prohibited transactions and compliance essentials
- How to open, fund, and manage your account without triggering taxes or penalties
The #1 Self-Directed Retirement Company
IRA Financial, founded in 2010, is a leading provider of self-directed retirement plans and your partner in financial freedom. Our platform and mobile app make managing your account easier than ever and our in-house tax and compliance team ensures your investments stay within IRS rules.
Why IRA Financial?
- Over $5 billion in retirement assets under custody
- 25,000+ clients across all 50 states
- 97% client retention rate
- Guaranteed IRA audit protection
- Expert support from highly trained specialists
Recognized for innovation and trust
Best Self-Directed IRA Companies 2025
Leading Firms for Self-Directed IRAs in 2025
Top-Rated Self-Directed IRA Services for Investors
How It Works
01
Open an Account
Sign up for an IRA Financial account and get access to our platform in minutes.
02
Fund Your Account
Make a contribution or transfer from another IRA account.
03
Choose Your Investments
Pick from any number of alternative asset investments.
See What Our Clients Have to Say
I've looked at all of the participants in this space and IRA Financial was the clear choice. They were the easiest to work with, answered all my questions and concerns prior to me taking the steps to open the account. The process is straight forward and there are no surprises. My investments in Real Estate have been largely successful. IRA Financial is professional, has great support, and put the customer in the driver's seat.
I believe that the sphere of influence, those we surround ourselves with and the firms we partner with is critical to our success. I’m honored to have found Adam Bergman and IRA Financial. Adam and his team have created a culture of raving fans, and I’m truly grateful to be one of them. Being treated like family is absolutely priceless.
I researched several companies before deciding to go with IRA Financial. I am completely happy with my choice. I appreciate that I can ask questions about rules prior to making an investment to make sure I am compliant. I like that I can invest in traditional investments, but also real estate. I have invested in land, rentals, and home flips. Whenever I am speaking with self-employed individuals, I bring up IRA Financial and the idea of opening a Solo 401(k). I think it is a no-brainer for someone who is self-employed and wish I had opened mine up sooner.
Ready to Take Control of Your Retirement?
Learn how investors are using self-directed retirement accounts to invest in real estate, cryptocurrency, private businesses, and other alternative assets.
