How do Checkbook Control IRAs Work? Questions and Answers
A Single Member LLC. A Checkbook IRA. A Self-Directed IRA. A lot of terms—and it can get confusing in a hurry. So why does one of the most flexible ways to invest with retirement funds have to sound so complicated? It may be because you don’t have the answers to common questions about Checkbook Control IRAs. To help remedy that, let’s explore some of those common questions, answer them, and help you explore the path of investing with more freedom over your retirement funds. Here’s what you’ll need to know.
Q: What is a Checkbook Control IRA?
A: A Checkbook Control IRA is a Self-Directed IRA that holds your Single Member LLC. With this Single Member LLC, you’ll have the business’s checkbook, control of which reverts to the IRA holder—which is you. Investors use this arrangement to exercise more flexibility with their investments. Why not simply use a Single Member LLC? You can, but then you’d forgo the tax advantages that come from using a retirement account for these investments.
Q: How do I establish a Checkbook Control IRA?
A: To establish a Checkbook Control IRA, you first need to open a Self-Directed IRA with a qualified custodian. Once the account is set up, you create an LLC that requires a specialized operating agreement and direct your custodian to fund it with your IRA funds. The custodian will then transfer the funds to the LLC’s bank account, granting you checkbook control. It sounds more complicated than it is, but if you work with the right team, it can help you tremendously.
Q: What are the advantages of Checkbook Control IRAs?
A: There are a few advantages to this process, which we’ll briefly outline here.
First, there’s more flexibility: With Checkbook Control IRAs, investors have the freedom to invest in a broad range of alternative assets, including real estate, private equity, precious metals, private loans, and more. This flexibility allows individuals to diversify their portfolios and potentially achieve higher returns.
Next, the investment process moves quickly: By bypassing the need for custodian approval, Checkbook Control IRAs streamline the investment process. Account owners can act quickly on investment opportunities and avoid delays associated with traditional custodian-directed transactions.
Finally, you may find that the process simplifies the administration on the account: Checkbook Control IRAs reduce administrative burdens and costs. Since the LLC is solely owned by the IRA, all income and expenses flow directly in and out of the LLC’s bank account, making record-keeping and reporting more straightforward.
Q: Can I manage the LLC myself?
A: Yes, you can manage the LLC yourself, but it’s important to note that the IRS has specific rules regarding prohibited transactions and disqualified persons. It’s crucial to familiarize yourself with these rules and consult with a knowledgeable tax professional to ensure compliance. You can’t simply invest your retirement funds into a rental property that your children or spouse owns, for example, because this would create a personal benefit that goes outside the bounds of a retirement investment.
Q: What are the tax implications of a Checkbook Control IRA?
A: Similar to other Self-Directed IRAs, the tax treatment of a Checkbook Control IRA depends on the account type (Traditional or Roth) and the nature of the investments. It’s essential to consult with a tax professional to understand the specific tax implications based on your individual circumstances.
Checkbook Control IRAs provide investors with a powerful tool to take control of their retirement investments. The ability to make investment decisions swiftly and efficiently, combined with the flexibility to diversify into alternative assets, can help individuals build a robust and personalized retirement portfolio.
Contact TurnKey IRA at 844-8876-IRA (472) for a free consultation. Download our free guide or visit us online at www.turnkeyira.com.
