IRA Financial Blog

Insights, strategies, and expert answers on self-directed retirement, taxes, and alternative investing.

Solo 401(k) history

The History of the Solo 401(k) Plan

When Did the 401(k) Start? – Key Historical Milestones Before we dig deeper, here's a quick timeline of the Solo 401(k) history: Year…

How to Hold Crypto, NFTs, and Private Equity in a Self-Directed IRA (and Stay Compliant): a 2025 Guide

How to Hold Crypto, NFTs, and Private Equity in a Self-Directed IRA (and Stay Compliant): a 2025 Guide

Most retirement accounts stick to the basics: stocks, bonds, and mutual funds. But today’s investors want more control—and more opportunity.…

The Tax‑Free Landlord: The Hidden Benefits of Owning Real Estate in a Retirement Account

The Tax‑Free Landlord: The Hidden Benefits of Owning Real Estate in a Retirement Account

Real estate is one of the most powerful tools for building long-term wealth, yet many investors limit themselves by holding property in taxable…

Understanding the Affiliated Service Group Rules

Understanding the Affiliated Service Group Rules

The affiliated service group (ASG) rules are some of the most complex tax regulations business owners face when establishing a Solo 401(k). If you…

Why Ellen’s House Flipping Strategy Matters for Retirement Investors

Why Ellen’s House Flipping Strategy Matters for Retirement Investors

Ellen DeGeneres has turned house flipping into a $190 million passion project. According to a Wall Street Journal feature, Ellen and Portia de Rossi…

How to Turn Your Biggest Expense (Taxes) into Your Biggest Asset (Retirement Savings) in 2025

How to Turn Your Biggest Expense (Taxes) into Your Biggest Asset (Retirement Savings) in 2025

Taxes are often a solopreneur’s single largest expense, but with the right retirement plan, you can redirect a big portion of those dollars into…

How to Buy a Franchise or Start a Business Debt‑Free

Start a Business or Franchise Debt‑Free

Thinking about how you can start a business but want to avoid traditional bank loans? You can leverage your retirement savings to fund your venture,…

How to Use a Self-Directed IRA for Sharia-Compliant Investing

Sharia-Compliant Investing – Use a Self-Directed IRA

For Muslim investors, retirement planning carries unique considerations. Beyond the usual goals of growing wealth, preserving assets, and preparing…

Yes, You Can Buy a Rental Property With Your IRA: A 2025 Guide

Yes, You Can Buy a Rental Property With Your IRA: A 2025 Guide

As a savvy real estate investor, you know how to identify value and generate returns from tangible assets. You've built a portfolio, managed a…

How Do Self-Directed IRAs Work?

How Do Self-Directed IRAs Work?

Why Retirement Accounts Matter Planning for retirement is one of the most important financial decisions you can make. It’s not simply about…

IRA Financial vs Madison Trust

IRA Financial vs Madison Trust

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.…

Solo 401(k) for free

How to Set Up a Solo 401(k) For Free!

A Solo 401(k) plan is designed for self-employed individuals or small business owners with no full-time employees (other than a spouse). It offers a…

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