When you have a single-member LLC within a Self-Directed IRA, it can make for a powerful investing arrangement. The control over the LLC’s checkbook will revert to you, the holder of the IRA. This means an investor can have all sorts of flexibility with retirement investing, putting retirement money in a wide range of potential asset classes. However, with flexibility comes the responsibility of avoiding something known as prohibited transactions. But what are prohibited transactions, and how can you make sure you don’t have any when you open your Self-Directed IRA LLC? Here’s what you’ll need to know.
Understanding a Self-Directed IRA LLC
Let’s back up and explain a bit more about how a Self-Directed IRA LLC might work. A Self-Directed IRA LLC combines the tax advantages of an IRA with the freedom to directly control your investment decisions. With a Self-Directed IRA LLC, you can establish a limited liability company (LLC) owned by your IRA, giving you “checkbook control” over your retirement funds. This means you have the power to make investment decisions quickly, without the need for custodian approval for each transaction. By having checkbook control, you can seize opportunities in a timely manner and potentially grow your retirement savings more efficiently.
The Appeal of Self-Directed IRA LLCs
One significant advantage of a Self-Directed IRA LLC is the ability to invest in alternative assets with a great degree of flexibility. While traditional IRAs limit your investment options to stocks, bonds, and mutual funds, a Self-Directed IRA LLC can hold a diverse portfolio of assets, including real estate, private businesses, tax liens, and much more. This flexibility allows you to leverage your knowledge and expertise in non-traditional investments, potentially generating higher returns for your retirement. Ultimately, what you do with this arrangement is up to you—but you do need to know the rules if you’re going to exercise that kind of freedom in your retirement arrangements.
Avoiding Prohibited Transactions
As enticing as the investment opportunities may be, it’s crucial to understand and adhere to the IRS rules governing Self-Directed IRAs. Prohibited transactions can result in severe penalties and even disqualification of the entire IRA. To protect your retirement savings, here are some essential guidelines to follow:
- No Self-Dealing: The IRA owner, as well as their close family members and certain business entities, can’t engage in transactions that directly benefit themselves personally. For example, you can’t use your Self-Directed IRA LLC to purchase a vacation property for personal use or lend money to yourself or a disqualified person.
- No Indirect Benefits: Similarly, you must avoid any transactions that indirectly benefit yourself or disqualified persons. This includes providing services to your IRA’s investments or using personal assets to secure a loan for your IRA.
- Arm’s Length Transactions: All transactions involving your Self-Directed IRA LLC must be conducted at arm’s length. This means that any investment must be made purely on a business basis, without personal relationships or interests influencing the decision-making process.
Ensuring Compliance with the Help of Professionals
Sound complicated? You could probably use a little help. Navigating the rules and regulations surrounding Self-Directed IRAs can be complex, and any missteps can have significant consequences. To ensure compliance and make the most of your Self-Directed IRA LLC, it’s wise to seek guidance from professionals well-versed in self-directed retirement accounts. Consulting with a knowledgeable tax attorney, CPA, or a reputable self-directed IRA custodian can provide you with the expert advice and peace of mind you need.
Contact TurnKey IRA at 844-8876-IRA (472) for a free consultation. Download our free guide or visit us online at www.turnkeyira.com.
