IRA Financial

Most retirement accounts are built around the same handful of public market options. But thousands of investors have used Self-Directed IRAs, Solo 401(k)s, and ROBS structures to invest in real estate, private equity, crypto, operating businesses, and more, all within IRS guidelines. Join IRA Financial Founder Adam Bergman for a live webinar where he breaks down real client case studies, the rules behind the strategies, and what it actually takes to build long-term, tax-advantaged wealth beyond Wall Street. Register now to reserve your spot: zurl.co/be28q

Happy Lunar New Year 🧧 Today marks the beginning of the Year of the Horse, a symbol of strength, independence, and forward momentum. It’s a powerful reminder that meaningful progress doesn’t happen by chance. It happens when you take action, stay focused, and invest with purpose. This year, take the reins of your retirement strategy. Move forward with clarity, confidence, and control. Here’s to bold steps and disciplined progress in 2026.

Investors choose IRA Financial for more than just account administration. They value investment flexibility, clear processes, and a strong focus on compliance. Most importantly, they want the confidence that their self-directed retirement strategy is structured and supported the right way. Education, transparency, and experience remain at the core of everything we do.

A ROBS (Rollover for Business Startups) allows entrepreneurs to use retirement funds to invest in their own business, without triggering taxes or penalties when structured properly. The process involves rolling eligible retirement funds into a new plan that invests in a C Corporation, providing capital for business operations. Because ROBS must follow strict IRS and Department of Labor rules, proper administration and ongoing compliance are critical.

Custodians and investment advisors serve very different roles in retirement investing. A custodian administers your account and helps ensure compliance. An investment advisor helps guide investment decisions and strategy. Understanding who does what is especially important in a Self-Directed IRA, where account holders have greater control, and greater responsibility.

Not all self-directed retirement accounts are the same. From IRAs to Solo 401(k)s and ROBS structures, each option offers different levels of control, flexibility, and compliance requirements. Choosing the right account depends on your investment strategy, goals, and how hands-on you want to be. Education is the first step toward making the right decision. Not sure where to start? Our team is here to help! Schedule a consultation: zurl.co/lrlu3

Are you accounting for UBIT in your self-directed IRA strategy? Unexpected taxes and filing requirements can catch investors off guard. Schedule a consultation to make sure your investments are structured properly. zurl.co/XwbnE

Many entrepreneurs don’t realize their retirement savings can be used to start or grow a business, without taking on early withdrawal penalties. Through compliant self-directed structures like ROBS, retirement funds can be deployed as working capital while preserving their tax-advantaged status. Understanding the rules and structure is essential. The right setup can make a meaningful difference in how entrepreneurs fund their future. Read the full blog to see which account is right for you! zurl.co/Yr78p

Today, we honor the life and legacy of Dr. Martin Luther King Jr. His vision of equality, service, and opportunity continues to inspire progress and positive change. Our offices are closed today but will resume normal business hours tomorrow.

Not all Self-Directed IRAs work the same way. Custodian control and Checkbook control each offer different levels of flexibility, speed, and responsibility—and choosing the right structure can impact how you invest, how fast you move, and how much administrative work you take on. Which structure is right for you?

Alternative assets continue to attract attention, but inside an IRA, interest alone isn’t the deciding factor. Each asset introduces different liquidity, valuation, and compliance considerations that can impact long-term outcomes. Understanding how an investment behaves inside a retirement account matters as much as the asset itself. Which of these assets are you evaluating this year?

Start the year with confidence. These five early-year moves can help you build a stronger, more intentional 2026 retirement strategy: 1. Set your Q1 contribution plan 2. Identify alternative assets you want to research 3. Map out key IRS deadlines 4. Review risk levels across your portfolio 5. Confirm your custodial and compliance structure A strong start supports a stronger year. We’re here to help!

The new year is the perfect time to rethink what’s possible with your retirement. Here’s to bigger goals, better strategies, and more control in the year ahead. Happy New Year! Our offices are closed today. Normal business hours will resume tomorrow.

The correct answer is B) Palladium. The IRS allows certain precious metals to be held in an IRA when they meet specific purity and storage requirements. With a Self-Directed IRA, you have the flexibility to include approved assets like palladium as part of a diversified, IRS-compliant retirement strategy. Do you know the other IRS approved precious metals? 👀

Quiz time 👇 Which of these is an IRS-approved precious metal for IRA investment? A) Copper B) Palladium C) Iron D) Nickel Drop your guess in the comments.

Contribution planning is one of the most effective ways to take control of your retirement. As you prepare for the new year, review expected 2026 limits and decide how you want to structure your contributions. Consider: - Traditional vs. Roth contributions based on income projections - Front-loading contributions for early-year growth potential - How your Solo 401(k) or self-directed IRA fits your long-term goals - Compliance reminders for contributions and rollovers A thoughtful strategy today helps you stay organized, and empowered, in the new year.

A fresh year is around the corner. This is the perfect time to review your accounts, streamline documentation, and confirm that your 2026 goals align with your broader strategy. A simple reset includes: - Reviewing all Self-Directed IRA or Solo 401(k) records - Confirming beneficiaries - Evaluating whether your plan is properly diversified - Mapping out your early-year contribution schedule A clean start today brings clarity all year long. Need help getting ready for the new year? Give our specialists a call! zurl.co/d7pQ9

Wishing you a warm and peaceful Christmas. We hope this time brings rest, reflection, and moments worth holding onto as the year comes to a close. Thank you for being part of our community. We’re here to support you and look forward to the year ahead. — The IRA Financial Team

The correct answer is False. With a Self-Directed IRA, you’re in control of your investment decisions. As long as the investment is permitted under IRS rules, you have the freedom to choose what aligns with your strategy, whether that’s real estate, private deals, or other alternative assets. The right education and structure help you invest with confidence while staying compliant.

True or False: With a Self-Directed IRA, the custodian is responsible for approving and vetting your investments. Drop your answer in the comments 🤔👇