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Turn Retirement Savings Into Business Capital with a ROBS 401(k)

Use a ROBS structure to quickly secure funds for your business without having to take out a loan, and avoiding early withdrawal penalties.

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What is ROBS?

The Rollover as Business Startups (ROBS) structure is a specialized arrangement that allows individuals to use retirement funds—typically from a 401(k) or traditional IRA—to finance a new or existing business without incurring early withdrawal penalties or taxes. In a ROBS setup, the individual rolls over retirement funds into a new 401(k) plan sponsored by a C Corporation they establish.

The plan then purchases stock in the corporation, providing the business with capital to operate or expand. While ROBS can be a powerful way to fund a business, it is complex and must follow strict IRS and Department of Labor rules to avoid triggering audits or disqualification. It’s essential to work with experienced professionals to ensure compliance.

Why Choose IRA Financial As Your ROBS 401(k) Provider?

A Rollover as Business Startups (ROBS) solution is the only legal way to use your 401(k) for startup or existing businesses. However, a poorly structured ROBS can lead to costly tax penalties and personal liability. Using IRA Financial as your ROBS 401(k) provider gets you expert guidance to keep your plan compliant while your investment grows—tax-deferred and penalty-free. No loans, no debt, no unnecessary hurdles—just a streamlined, IRS-approved way to fund your business while protecting your personal assets.

No Hidden Fees

No commissions or surprise charges.

Expert Support

Live chat available 8AM–6PM Central Time.

Flexible Investing

Make other alternative investments.

24,000+ Clients

Trusted by investors in all 50 states.

ROBS Specialists

Experience with Navigating IRS Rules & Regulations.

Ongoing Maintenance

Administration services to keep you IRS compliant.

Trustpilot

ROBS 401(k)

  • Best plan to grow or fund your business tax free!
  • Earn a salary
  • Sell your business tax free
  • Generate tax-free income
  • Guaranteed IRS audit protection

Pricing Details

$3,500

setup fee

$1,200

annually

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How to Open a ROBS 401(k)

Opening a ROBS structure is easy when done right. Our team handles the setup so you can roll over your retirement funds without penalties, meet IRS requirements, and focus on building your business.

Register for access & fill out onboarding docs

Step 1

Fill out the onboarding documents here, and then register for online access, here.

Finish your application with a ROBS specialist

Step 2

Our experts will guide you through the final steps, ensuring everything is set up correctly and fully compliant.

Establish a C Corporation and New 401(k)

Step 3

As your ROBS 401(k) provider, we’ll set up a C Corp and create a qualified plan for funding your business on your behalf.

The Benefits of a ROBS 401(k)

    Tax-deferred

    Access your retirement savings without early withdrawal penalties or taxes to start or grow your business.

    No loans, no debt

    You’re funding your business with your own money, avoiding bank loans, high interest rates, or personal credit risks.

    Ownership & control

    Unlike investors or lenders, a ROBS doesn’t require giving up equity or control of your business.

    Stronger cash flow

    Without loan payments or investor obligations, your business keeps more of its revenue early on, improving stability and growth potential.

    Covers all costs

    Unlike SBA loans or traditional financing, ROBS funds can cover startup costs, payroll, marketing, real estate, inventory, or even franchise fees.

    ROBS 401(k) vs. Other Funding Options

    ROBS SBA Loan Investors
    No Loan Repayment
    No Credit or Collateral Required
    Retain Full Ownership
    No Interest or Lender Fees
    Flexible Use of Funds
    Personal Financial Risk

    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 I Invest in With a ROBS Structure?

    At IRA Financial, you can use your retirement funds to launch or grow a business. Our ROBS solution allows you to invest in:

    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

    ROBS 401(k) Frequently Asked Questions

    Answers to some of the most commonly asked questions about the ROBS structure.

    What is a ROBS?

    Rollover as Business Startups (ROBS) is a method of funding a small business or franchise using your retirement funds. In fact, ROBS is the only legal way to use your retirement funds to invest in yourself without incurring tax penalties.

    Any retirement account that allows rollovers into a traditional 401(k) plan, including traditional IRAs, SEP IRAs, SIMPLE IRAs, 401(k)s, and 457(b) plans. Roth IRAs cannot be used since they are not eligible for rollover into a traditional 401(k).

    The business must be active, for-profit, and federally legal. ROBS cannot be used for businesses that only generate passive income (such as rental properties with no active management).

    • Real estate businesses qualify, but at least 50% of assets must be actively managed real estate (not passive investments).
    • Personal-use property is not allowed.

    Yes! ROBS funds can be combined with personal savings, co-owners, investors, or even an SBA loan to start or grow a business.

    Yes. Under the ROBS structure, the owner must be an employee of the business. The salary must be reasonable for the role and industry to follow IRS guidelines.

    Each year, IRS Form 5500 must be filed to report the value of 401(k) plan assets. This filing is required for IRS compliance.

    Yes. The business must undergo an annual independent valuation to determine the fair market value of the stock held by the 401(k) plan. This valuation is required for Form 5500 reporting.

    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

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