Investments
Why the Fed’s Rate Cut Strengthens the Case for Self-Directed IRAs
The Fed’s rate cut makes Self-Directed IRAs more appealing.
What is a Checkbook IRA?
Answer: A Checkbook IRA is a Self-Directed IRA + LLC structure. The IRA owns the LLC. The investor manages the LLC. The manager controls the LLC bank account. This gives you check-writing authority to execute deals quickly while maintaining the IRA’s tax advantages.
At a glance:
- Structure: IRA → LLC → Investment
- Control: You write checks from the LLC account
- Scope: Real estate, private equity, notes, precious metals, crypto (within IRS rules)
Why Choose a Checkbook IRA?
- Speed: Sign, fund, and close on assets without custodian processing delays.
- Cost control: Reduce per-transaction fees that come with a fully custodian-directed model.
- Flexibility: Access a broad menu of IRS-permitted alternative assets.
- Operational privacy: Holdings sit inside your IRA-owned LLC.
Our role: We set up the structure correctly and guide you step-by-step, so you can act fast and stay compliant.
Why Choose Us As Your Checkbook IRA Provider
IRA Financial is a trusted leader in Checkbook Control IRAs, offering industry expertise, transparent pricing, and full support for setting up and managing your IRA LLC.
No Hidden Fees
No commissions or surprise charges.
Industry Expertise
Led by Checkbook IRA specialists.
24,000+ Clients
Proudly serving over 24,000 clients across all 50 states.
Expert Support
Live chat available 8AM–6PM Central Time.
Flexible Investing
Manage assets or have us handle them.
Dedicated Focus
100% Checkbook IRA solutions.
Checkbook IRA
- Ultimate freedom and privacy
- Invest in almost anything you want
- Use a traditional, Roth, SEP or SIMPLE IRA, ESA or HSA
- No transaction or asset value fees
Pricing Details
$999
setup fee
$495
annually
How to Start a Checkbook IRA (IRA LLC)
With a Checkbook Control IRA, you create an LLC owned by your IRA, giving you full control to invest directly, without custodial intervention.
The Benefits of a Checkbook Control IRA
Direct investment control
Direct investment control
Choose what, where, and how you want to invest without relying on managers with high fees
Faster transactions
Faster transactions
Act quickly by using your checkbook to invest directly. This reduces delays that can impact returns.
Better tax advantages
Better tax advantages
Let your investments grow tax-deferred or tax-free, allowing your wealth to compound over time without immediate tax liabilities.
Broader investment choices
Broader investment choices
Go beyond stocks and bonds with a Checkbook IRA LLC. Invest in alternative assets like real estate, cryptocurrency, private equity, and precious metals—unlocking greater growth potential.
Greater earning potential
Greater earning potential
Take advantage of high-growth investments that regular IRAs don’t allow, potentially maximizing long-term returns.
Built-in asset protection
Built-in asset protection
Structure investments to reduce liability risks and safeguard your wealth for long-term financial security.
Our Checkbook IRA vs Other IRA Companies
Most IRA custodians require approvals for every transaction and charge fees per asset. With a Checkbook IRA, once we set up your LLC, you gain complete control over your investments without extra costs.
| IRA Financial | Other Providers | |
|---|---|---|
| Flat Annual Fee | Yes | No |
| $0 Account & Transaction Fees | Yes | No |
| $0 Admin & Processing Fees | Yes | No |
| Expert-Guided Investments | Yes | No |
| Guaranteed IRS Audit Protection | Yes | Yes |
| Annual Tax Consulting | Yes | No |
| Annual Reporting & Filing Service | Yes | No |
Book a Consultation
Schedule a free consultation with a member of our team to explore how opening a self-directed retirement account can unlock your ability to invest tax-free in a variety of alternative assets.
See What Our Clients Have to Say
What Alternative Assets Can You Invest in with a Checkbook IRA?
Like a custodial-managed Self-Directed IRA, a Checkbook IRA gives you the freedom to invest in a wide range of alternative assets like:
Real Estate
Residential, commercial, raw land, and rental properties.
Cryptocurrency
Bitcoin, Ethereum, and other digital assets.
Precious Metals
Gold, silver, and other IRS-approved metals.
Tax Liens & Deeds
Acquire property liens for potential returns.
Private Equity
Invest in startups, private companies, and venture capital.
Private Placements
Invest in a non-public company through the sale of securities.
Checkbook IRA FAQs
Answers to some of the most commonly asked questions about Checkbook IRAs.
What is a Checkbook IRA?
A Checkbook IRA (also called an IRA LLC) is a type of Self-Directed IRA that owns a limited liability company (LLC). This structure allows you to make investments instantly without custodian approval, reducing costs and delays.
What are the benefits of a Checkbook IRA over a standard Self-Directed IRA?
A traditional Self-Directed IRA requires custodian approval for every investment, which can slow down transactions and add fees. A Checkbook IRA lets you:
- Make instant investments without waiting for approvals.
- Avoid transaction fees charged by custodians.
- Write checks or send wires directly from your IRA LLC.
When you open a Checkbook IRA with us, we’ll open the LLC for you.
How long does setup take?
Most accounts open in 1–3 business days after we receive your documents. With funding and first investment, plan on 3–4 weeks overall, depending on transfer times.
Do I really get full checkbook control?
Yes. Your IRA owns an LLC; you manage the LLC and its bank account to execute investments within IRS rules.
How much can I contribute to a Checkbook IRA?
For 2025, you can contribute up to $7,000 plus an additional $1,000 catch-up contribution if you are age 50 or older.
When can I withdraw funds from my Checkbook IRA?
Like a standard Self-Directed IRA, you can withdraw funds at any time, but if you’re under 59 ½, you’ll face a 10% early withdrawal penalty plus income taxes. After 59 ½, you’ll only pay taxes on withdrawals.
Can I pay personal expenses from the LLC?
No. All expenses and income must flow through the IRA-owned LLC. Keep personal funds separate.
What is a Required Minimum Distribution (RMD)?
At age 73, you must start withdrawing a portion of your traditional IRA each year. This RMD amount is based on your account balance and IRS guidelines.
What if I have a question mid-deal?
Reach out. We’ll clarify documentation and process so your transaction stays clean.
Ready to plan for your future?
Take control of your retirement by investing in alternative assets like real estate, cryptocurrency, businesses, and more. Start creating wealth today by opening an account.
Related Articles
Self-Directed IRA
Sharia-Compliant Investing – Use a Self-Directed IRA
Build a Sharia-compliant retirement portfolio with a Self-Directed IRA.
Self-Directed IRA
How Do Self-Directed IRAs Work?
Learn how Self-Directed IRAs work, their tax benefits, and how they let you invest in real estate, crypto, and more.