Investing for retirement is something worth beginning as early as possible.
Current annual costs for someone over the age of 65 are approximately $50,000. So you’ll need a significant amount in your retirement account in order to live comfortably during this time.
One of the best ways to begin saving is a self-directed IRA, but not everyone knows how to go about it.
Not sure where to start? Don’t worry, we’ve got you covered.
Let’s take a look at everything you need to know about how to set up a self-directed IRA.
1. Select a Provider
In order to get started, you’ll need to work with a financial institution or firm that facilitates the opening of IRA accounts. When searching, though, there are some things you’ll want to keep in mind.
A provider with plenty of experience in this area that also offers a large range of investment opportunities is one you should prioritize. Additionally, your provider should also have experts willing to help you make the right investment decisions for your situation.
2. Choose What Type of IRA You Want to Open
Although you’ll be opening a self-directed IRA, you’ll still need to decide between a Roth IRA or traditional IRA.
Both allow you to invest in your retirement, but they have fairly different attributes. The best one for you will depend on your current finances and how much you plan to have invested by retirement.
You can learn more about the differences here.
3. Understand Your Investment Options
The main benefit that a self-directed IRA provides is the increased flexibility you’ll have when creating your investment portfolio. So, you’ll be able to fine-tune your investments to meet your long-term goals while remaining within your tolerated level of risk.
Working with a reputable provider will help you optimize your portfolio even further.
4. Apply For an Account
After you’ve decided who to work with and what type of IRA account you want to open, you’ll be required to complete an application.
You’ll need the following on hand in order for everything to go as quickly as possible:
- Government ID
- Social security number
- Account information used for funding
- Fee payment method
- Info regarding your beneficiary
Depending on your provider, you may need to provide additional information.
5. Start Saving
After everything’s up and running, you can decide how you’d like to fund your account.
These come in three categories:
- Transfers: Funding your newly created IRA account from another IRA account
- Contributions: Sending money to your IRA account from a non-retirement account, such as from a checking or savings account
- Rollover: Transferring money to your IRA account from a different type of investment account, such as a 401K
Once you have money in your account, you can change how you’d like to contribute in the future if you need to.
Understanding How to Set Up a Self-Directed IRA Can Seem Difficult
But it doesn’t have to be.
With the above information about how to set up a self-directed IRA in mind, you’ll be well on your way to financing your future as early as possible.
Want to learn more about how we can help? Feel free to get in touch with the team at Quest today to see what we can do.