Skip Navigation

Maintain Full Control With a Checkbook IRA

A Checkbook IRA (also known as Self-Directed IRA LLC) gives you direct control over your retirement funds, allowing you to invest in alternative assets without custodial fees or long turn-around times.

Open Account
Schedule a Consultation

What is a Checkbook IRA?

A Checkbook IRA is a type of Self-Directed IRA that allows the account holder to have direct control over investment decisions through a specially structured LLC. In this setup, the IRA owns the LLC, and the account holder acts as the manager, giving them “checkbook control” to write checks and make investments on behalf of the IRA without needing custodian approval for each transaction. This structure offers greater flexibility and speed for investing in alternative assets like real estate, private placements, and precious metals. However, it also requires strict adherence to IRS rules to avoid prohibited transactions and maintain the tax-advantaged status of the account.

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.

Trustpilot

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

Open Account
Download Fee Schedule

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.

Open an account

Step 1

Start by opening a Checkbook IRA with us. This account will fund your IRA LLC.

Get your SDIRA account number

Step 2

Once approved, you’ll receive your Checkbook IRA account number to move forward.

Form Your IRA LLC

Step 3

We help set up your LLC, obtain an EIN, and ensure compliance with IRS rules.

Fund your account

Step 4

Use a checkbook to invest directly from your Checkbook IRA.

The Benefits of a Checkbook Control IRA

    Direct investment control

    Choose what, where, and how you want to invest without relying on managers with high fees

    Faster transactions

    Act quickly by using your checkbook to invest directly. This reduces delays that can impact returns.

    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

    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

    Take advantage of high-growth investments that regular IRAs don’t allow, potentially maximizing long-term returns.

    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
    $0 Account & Transaction Fees
    $0 Admin & Processing Fees
    Expert-Guided Investments
    Guaranteed IRS Audit Protection
    Annual Tax Consulting
    Annual Reporting & Filing Service

    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.

    Let’s Talk!

    See What Our Clients Have to Say

    I’m beyond pleased with having my self-directed IRA in your teams capable hands. In a few short months, it’s already proving to be a solid retirement investment vehicle. The fees are insignificant compared to the value. Many thanks.

    Ann M. C.

    Illinois

    The process of setting up my self-directed IRA was quick and painless. There were a lot of forms to be completed, but the customer service at IRA Financial Group is great and they are very quick to respond. I was able to complete my set up quickly and get my funds transferred very quickly. Thanks!

    Christy

    Virginia

    I am extremely pleased with the service and professionalism provided by the IRA Financial Group. I don’t think you can find a better firm to handled Self Directed IRA accounts. Keep up the great work and I will always do business with you.

    Owen S.

    Texas

    IRA Financial Group was invaluable in setting up my account. They explained all of the details involved with the process and made the entire evolution simple and efficient. If someone is considering a self-directed IRA, IRA Financial Group is the clear choice.

    Michael J.

    Utah

    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.

    Learn More

    Cryptocurrency

    Bitcoin, Ethereum, and other digital assets.

    Learn More

    Precious Metals

    Gold, silver, and other IRS-approved metals.

    Learn More

    Tax Liens & Deeds

    Acquire property liens for potential returns.

    Learn More

    Private Equity

    Invest in startups, private companies, and venture capital.

    Learn More

    Private Placements

    Invest in a non-public company through the sale of securities.

    Learn More

    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.

    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. 

    For 2025, you can contribute up to $7,000 plus an additional $1,000 catch-up contribution if you are age 50 or older.

    No, you cannot use your Checkbook IRA to invest in or lend money to a business you own or control. This is considered a prohibited transaction under IRS rules.

    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.

    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.

    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.

    Open Account

    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.

    Open Account

    Related Articles