Choosing the right Self-Directed IRA (SDIRA) provider isn’t just a financial decision—it’s a foundational step in building the future you envision. Whether you’re investing in real estate, private businesses, or other alternative assets, the custodian you select plays a critical role in how smoothly, securely, and cost-effectively your investment journey unfolds.
Two of the most commonly-compared providers are IRA Financial and Madison Trust Company. While both companies offer access to alternative investments, the similarities end there. When you dig deeper into what matters most—transparent pricing, platform flexibility, and personalized client support—IRA Financial stands apart.
At IRA Financial, we believe investors deserve more than just account administration. You deserve a partner who puts you in control, helps you stay compliant with IRS rules, and gives you the tools to act quickly when opportunity strikes. That’s why we’ve designed our platform to eliminate unnecessary fees, streamline the investment process, and give you real-time access to your retirement funds—without waiting for custodial approval.
Here’s a closer look at how IRA Financial compares to Madison Trust, and why thousands of investors choose us to help them invest freely and retire confidently.
Pricing & Fees: Transparent, Flat, and Investor-Friendly
When evaluating self-directed retirement account providers, fees are often the deciding factor, especially for investors managing multiple assets or exploring emerging opportunities like cryptocurrency. Hidden charges and complex pricing structures can erode returns over time. At IRA Financial, we believe in straightforward, client-first pricing that puts you in control. Our flat, transparent fee model ensures you know exactly what you’re paying, with no surprises.
 |  | |
Setup Fee | $0 | $50 |
Annual Fee | $495 | $800 |
Asset Value Fee | $0 | $0 |
Investment Fee | $0 | $200 |
Roth Conversion Fee | $0 | $100 |
1 Year Total Cost | $495 | $1,150 |
5 Year Total Cost | $2,475 | $4,350 |
Based on 4 investments and a $200K balance
IRA Financial:
- Flat, transparent annual fees—Self-Directed IRAs start at $495/year, with other plans available from $100/year.
- No asset-based fees, transaction fees, or hidden charges—just one clear price.
- IRAfi Crypto platform with low trading costs for buying, selling, and trading crypto directly in the IRA Financial app.
Madison Trust:
- Charges a base custodial fee ($440 annual), a setup fee, and additional custodial fees per asset held.
- Annual asset holding fees and transaction processing charges can make costs add up quickly.
- Crypto is handled through third-party partnerships with separate trading costs.
Summary
The bottom line? With IRA Financial, you keep more of what you earn. Our cost-effective structure is designed to support long-term investors who value flexibility and transparency. Whether you’re diversifying into real estate, private placements, or crypto, our pricing puts your goals, not fees, at the center of your strategy.
Winner: IRA Financial.
IRA Financial offers more predictable and lower-cost pricing, especially for accounts holding multiple assets or investing in crypto.
Winner: IRA Financial.
IRA Financial offers more predictable and lower-cost pricing, especially for accounts holding multiple assets or investing in crypto.
Investment Flexibility & Product Options
True retirement freedom means having the power to invest on your terms. Whether you’re building wealth through real estate, diversifying into private equity, or tapping into the fast-moving crypto market, your Self-Directed provider should support, not limit, your strategy. At IRA Financial, we offer a broad range of account types and investment options to meet your unique goals, with flexible structures designed to give you full control from day one.
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Self-Directed IRA | ||
Solo 401(k) | ||
Checkbook Control | ||
ROBS Structure | ||
Crypto Platform |
IRA Financial:
- Full range of Self-Directed IRA investments, including real estate, private lending, startups, and precious metals, plus direct crypto investing.
- Unified platform combining crypto, checkbook control, real estate, and more in one place.
- Advanced retirement structures: Solo 401(k) plans, SEP & SIMPLE IRAs, HSAs, Coverdell accounts, and ROBS funding solutions for businesses.
- Designed for today’s investors with a mobile-first approach and an intuitive account dashboard.
Madison Trust:
- Offers Traditional and Roth IRAs, Checkbook Control IRAs (via an IRA LLC or Trust), Solo 401(k)s, SEP IRAs, and SIMPLE IRAs
- Supports real estate, private equity, and similar alternatives, but requires third-party LLC facilitation for checkbook control.
Summary
With IRA Financial, you’re not boxed in by third-party limitations or narrow account offerings. From Solo 401(k) plans and HSAs to Backdoor Roth strategies and checkbook control, we equip you with the tools and flexibility to act quickly and invest strategically. No middlemen. No red tape. Just the freedom to build your retirement your way.
Winner: IRA Financial.
IRA Financial provides more direct control and a broader range of products in-house, including advanced structures and built-in crypto trading.
Winner: IRA Financial.
IRA Financial provides more direct control and a broader range of products in-house, including advanced structures and built-in crypto trading.
Technology: Built for the Modern Investor
In today’s fast-paced world, investors need more than just access…they need intuitive tools that make managing retirement investments simple, secure, and efficient. At IRA Financial, we’ve built a tech-forward platform that meets the expectations of modern investors. From fast onboarding to real-time visibility across all asset types, our digital experience puts you in command, wherever you are.
IRA Financial:
- Modern mobile app and dashboard with a clean, user-friendly interface.
- 100% digital onboarding, secure document storage, and automated compliance.
- Consolidated tools for crypto trading, real-time dashboards, and checkbook control in a single portal.
Madison Trust:
- Client portal allows you to set up an account in 10-15 minutes.
- Account setup and investment processing can be slower due to manual handling.
- Lacks integrated crypto or digital dashboards.
Summary
When every day counts in investing, slow processes can hold you back. IRA Financial’s technology eliminates delays and empowers you with full transparency and control, from your laptop or mobile device. Whether you’re funding your account, executing crypto trades, or uploading documents, our streamlined platform delivers the speed and clarity today’s investors demand.
Winner: IRA Financial.
IRA Financial is built for tech-savvy investors who expect efficiency, transparency, and mobile access.
Winner: IRA Financial.
IRA Financial is built for tech-savvy investors who expect efficiency, transparency, and mobile access.
Reputation & Customer Reviews: Trusted by Thousands
When selecting an SDIRA provider, reputation matters. It’s not just about how many years a company has been in business—it’s about how they treat their clients and the trust they build over time. At IRA Financial, we’ve earned the confidence of thousands of investors through responsive support, clear communication, and a commitment to financial education that empowers every client.
| | |
Trustpilot | 4.8 / 5 | N/A |
4.8 / 5 | 4.8 / 5 | |
Other Platforms | 4.8 / 5 | 4.8 / 5 |
IRA Financial:
- Trusted for quick account setup, responsive support, and transparent pricing.
- Backed by 3,000+ 5-star reviews across Google, Trustpilot, and other platforms.
- Founded by tax attorney Adam Bergman, who provides ongoing education through weekly videos, podcasts, and blog content.
Madison Trust:
- Generally positive reviews, with clients praising personal service, but common complaints about delays and confusion around fees.
- Less visible thought leadership or educational content compared to IRA Financial.
Summary
While both IRA Financial and Madison Trust have positive client feedback, IRA Financial leads with a stronger digital presence, more consistent service, and a deep focus on education. From expert-led videos to real-time support, we go beyond account management to help you make informed decisions with clarity and confidence.
Winner: IRA Financial.
Both providers are trusted, but IRA Financial has a stronger digital presence, faster service, and broader investor education resources.
Winner: IRA Financial.
Both providers are trusted, but IRA Financial has a stronger digital presence, faster service, and broader investor education resources.
The Bottom Line: Why IRA Financial Is the Smarter Choice
When comparing Self-Directed IRA providers, the difference is clear. IRA Financial delivers the pricing transparency, investment flexibility, and tech-forward experience that today’s investors expect—backed by a reputation for expert guidance and responsive service. From real estate to crypto and everything in between, we empower you to take charge of your retirement with confidence.
Don’t settle for outdated processes or hidden fees. Choose a provider built for investors like you—who want more control, less red tape, and a clear path to long-term wealth.
Ready to invest freely and retire confidently?
Open your account with IRA Financial today and take the next step toward financial independence.
