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Simplifying Tough Financial Decisions: Should You Get a Self-Directed IRA or the Traditional One?

October 29, 2018 by Susan Paige

If you’re looking for a way to invest your money to save for your retirement, while still making money, one of the best ways to think about your future is to look into what options are available to you. In this case, we’re going to be thinking about IRAs.

In particular, we want to be looking at self-directed IRAs, perhaps one of the most uncommon forms of retirement investment. In some cases, not even wall bankers or investors will have heard of these, despite how excellent they can be.

To help you make the right decisions with your money, today we’re going to explore the ins and outs of both a self-directed IRA and a traditional one, giving you everything you need to make the right decision for you.

What is a Traditional IRA?

A traditional, bog-standard IRA stands for Individual Retirement Accounts. This is a type of savings account that you can put money in to help support you and fund your life after you reach retirement.

You would use an IRA to store your money rather than a savings account because you’re able to benefit from some of the tax advantages they provide. However, the money in the account can make money and profit thanks to the investments made with your money.

This is typically carried out by the organization you have the IRA with, whether that’s a bank or third-party organization.

What is a Self-Directed IRA?

A self-directed IRA is extremely similar to a traditional IRA in the sense that you can invest your money and save for your retirement. The only difference is that you can invest your money yourself and you choose where it goes.

This is ideal if you’re looking for a way to save money in certain tax areas, but you want to invest in a friend, family member, or your own business. However, it’s also up to you to make sure you meet all the regulations regarding the investment, ensure you don’t break any rules or regulations, and you meet all IRA criteria.

Which One is Best for Me?

In reality, either of the IRAs will benefit you in the long-term, all while helping you achieve the tax advantage. However, unless you’re clued up on the ins and outs of the law and investment regulations, or you’re willing to hire someone to do it on your behalf, you should probably stick with a traditional IRA.

If, however, you want to invest in something you own or are related to, and you want to save and invest at the same time, a self-directed IRA is definitely something that’s worth looking into.

Summary

Make sure you’re researching the pros and cons of each type of IRA, especially when you’re looking at different providers since the terms and conditions, benefits and advantages may change. It’s always a good idea to research every option available to you, so you can see which one will serve your best.

If you want to take this path, but you’re unsure of where to go or what to do next, make sure you’re investing the help and knowledge of financial experts, such as the ones here; https://theentrustgroup.com/self-directed-iras/what-is-a-self-directed-ira.

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