Roth IRA

Can a Roth IRA work as a self-directed IRA?

Certainly. The self directed IRA platform works for both the standard IRA and the Roth IRA.

How would a Roth IRA benefit from a self-directed IRA platform?

You obviously are already keyed in to the tax benefits of the Roth. It only makes sense that you should be looking to maximize those benefits with superior investment tools. In order to understand how exactly a self-directed IRA platform would benefit the Roth, first we need to discuss the two different forms that self direction can take.

Much of what is currently being trumpeted as a self-directed IRA is actually a limited platform known as the Trust model. This has the benefit of allowing for alternative assets, but otherwise does not allow for full self-direction. The custodian retains the sole right to effect all transactions.

When the account holder wants to place an investment, he/she must make a request of the custodian, who then in turn will execute the transaction. As you can imagine, this can be a time consuming process, and it adds additional expense in the form of transaction and managerial fees. The feature which allows a self-directed IRA to rise above these problems is called Checkbook Control.

Checkbook Control takes a self-directed IRA to the next level by giving it complete investment control. Your self-directed IRA will be making investments via a designated checking account. All investment placement, contractor payments, and other financial dealings can be performed by simply writing a check. This gets rid of the aforementioned fees, and allows you to execute transactions in a timely manner. In short you get more investment power while cutting down on your expenses.

Can I rollover a previously existing Roth IRA into a new self-directed IRA?

Yes. The rollover process is the same as any other existing retirement fund. A few easy forms and you’re on your way.

If I have a Roth 401K, is there any advantage of rolling it over into a self-directed IRA?

If you currently have a Roth 401k you’d most probably be better off rolling it over into a self-directed Solo 401k. This is commonly known as an IRR, or In-Plan Roth Rollover. The only advantage of rolling it over into a self-directed IRA would come later as the investor approaches the age of 72 at which point RMDs (Required Minimum Distributions) must be taken. Roth 401k funds are subject to RMDs, while Roth IRA funds are exempt. Thus the rollover to a self-directed IRA would allow the investor to avoid RMDs.

How can I set up a self-directed Roth IRA?

The process is fairly simple. Call Broad and ask any questions you may have to one of our friendly specialists. After making sure that you’re a good fit for a self-directed IRA, our specialist will send you a few forms. Fill out those forms, send them out, and fairly soon after you’ll be able to open a checking account at the bank of your choosing.

What actually happens behind the scenes is that Broad will establish a LLC for your self-directed IRA, as well as facilitating your opening a new self-directed IRA account at a qualified custodian. The checking account will be opened in the name of the LLC, and will serve as the investment platform for your self-directed IRA.