An LLC…within an IRA…which you use to hold checkbook control over a retirement account? It sounds like a lot of paperwork. It sounds like a lot of complicated maneuvering. But you’d be surprised. When you zoom out and work with someone who can help you, the steps to opening a Self-Directed IRA LLC—which gives you “checkbook control” in a retirement account—can be surprisingly simple. You just need someone to help break them down.
Why a Self-Directed IRA LLC?
For starters, let’s address how this works. A Self-Directed IRA LLC is a Single Member LLC within your Self-Directed IRA. You hold one of these for a primary benefit: the checkbook of the LLC reverts to your control as the IRA holder. This means you can make quick, flexible, easy investments using a checkbook, which helps you reduce the overhead and administration that’s typically associated with Self-Directed IRA investments—or retirement investments in general. That’s why it can sound like a complicated setup, but ultimately gives you more control and flexibility once it’s ready to start.
Here are the essential steps you’ll need to embrace, as we note under the “Process” tab at our Checkbook Self-Directed IRA LLC page.
Step 1: Establish a Self-Directed IRA
The process begins with establishing a Self-Directed IRA specifically designed for investing in an LLC. This means drafting a specialized Self-Directed IRA Operating Agreement containing IRA-specific language. Additionally, you’ll need to register the LLC with the state where it will operate and obtain an Employer Identification Number (EIN) from the IRS. This step lays the foundation for the Checkbook Self-Directed IRA LLC structure.
Step 2: Transfer Retirement Funds
Next, you’ll need to transfer or rollover funds from your former employer retirement plans or existing IRAs to the new Self-Directed IRA Custodian that allows you to start investing within an LLC. This ensures that your retirement funds are held within the Self-Directed IRA structure and ready to be invested through the LLC.
Step 3: Establish a Checking Account
As the named manager of the LLC, you’ll establish a checking account for the LLC at any bank of your choice. This checking account will serve as the vehicle for managing and transacting investments on behalf of your Self-Directed IRA LLC. It’s a great way to start thinking about how you’ll navigate retirement.
Step 4: Fund a Checkbook Self-Directed IRA LLC
Once the LLC checking account is established, the Self-Directed IRA custodian will process the investment directive and fund the Self-Directed IRA Owned LLC. This typically involves wiring the funds from the Self-Directed IRA Custodian to the LLC checking account, where they become available for your retirement investment needs.
Step 5: Invest
With the Self-Directed IRA LLC checking account funded, you can begin processing investment purchases according to your investment strategy. Whether you’re interested in real estate, private equity, precious metals, or other alternative assets, the Checkbook Self-Directed IRA LLC structure provides you with the autonomy to make investment decisions on your terms.
Unlocking Incredibly Investment Potential with a Self-Directed IRA LLC
Opening a Self-Directed IRA LLC empowers investors to take control of their retirement funds and explore a broader range of investment opportunities. These five steps may sound like a lot from where you’re sitting, but when you put it all together, it’s actually much more intuitive than you might think. And the result is a powerful new way to invest using a system with more flexibility and range than you might have ever thought possible in a retirement account.
If you’re interested in learning more about how a Self-Directed IRA LLC can help you achieve your retirement goals, reach out to TurnKey IRA at 866-7500-IRA.
