Self-directed IRA: which custodian fits your alt asset?
Rocket Dollar, Alto, Equity Trust, IRA Financial. 4 questions.
Custodian fit by asset
| Profile | Best fit | Why |
|---|---|---|
| LLC checkbook control on $5k-$100k | Rocket Dollar | Flat-fee LLC structure ($600-1200/yr); checkbook wires from your own bank |
| Private placements (PE/VC/RE syndications) | Alto IRA | Direct integrations with major syndication platforms; per-investment fees |
| RE-heavy with high transaction count | Equity Trust | Largest SDIRA custodian; RE-fluent; transaction-based fees |
| Sophisticated / solo 401k overlap | IRA Financial | Strong on solo 401k structures; checkbook + LLC options; CPA-led |
Things that get founders in trouble
- UBIT: debt-financed real estate inside an IRA generates Unrelated Business Income Tax. Not a deal-breaker but math it before buying.
- Prohibited transactions: can't transact with disqualified persons (you, spouse, lineal descendants, certain entities). Disqualifies the entire IRA.
- Sweat equity: you cannot personally manage IRA-owned property. Property manager required.
- Checkbook IRA litigation: historically defensible (Swanson, Ellis), but IRS has aggressive positions. Use a setup attorney.
FAQ
- SDIRA custodian vs investment adviser?
- An SDIRA custodian holds the account and administers transactions. They do NOT give investment advice or vet your investment quality. You make all investment decisions. If you need investment advice, hire a fiduciary adviser separately.
- Solo 401k vs SDIRA?
- Solo 401k allows higher contributions and easier loans, but only if you have self-employment income. SDIRA is for rolled-over W-2 retirement money. Many investors use both.
Want a personal intro to the right vendor?
Tell us your situation and we'll forward your details to the matched vendor — they'll follow up with you directly. Same price either way; we earn a referral fee from the vendor only if you sign up.