Question 1

How do I move my Charles Schwab Solo 401(k)?

Accepted Answer

If you're looking to transfer your Charles Schwab Solo 401(k), there's no need to cancel your plan altogether. Instead, you can terminate your services with Charles Schwab for the plan and move the assets to your new account. IRAR will guide you through the steps and paperwork to help make the process smooth.

Question 2

Can an individual open a 401(k)?

Accepted Answer

An individual cannot open a standard employer 401(k). However, if you are self-employed and have no full-time employees other than a spouse, you may be eligible to open a Solo 401(k). If you do not have a business, you can still open a Traditional IRA or Roth IRA.

Question 3

How do I move my Solo 401(k) to a Self-Directed Solo 401(k)?

Accepted Answer

To move an existing plan to a self-directed Solo 401(k) that can hold alternative assets, you typically open a self-directed Solo 401(k) with a custodian that supports alternative investments, then roll the funds into the new plan. Be sure to compare custodians for fees, services, and asset support before moving your account.

Question 4

How do you open a self-directed IRA?

Accepted Answer

To open a self-directed IRA, you start by choosing a self-directed IRA custodian and completing a new account application. You typically need a digital copy of a government-issued ID (such as a driver's license or passport). If you have existing retirement savings, you can transfer or roll them into your new self-directed IRA as part of the setup process.

Question 5

Where can you open a self-directed IRA?

Accepted Answer

You can open a self-directed IRA at IRAR Trust Company because IRAR Trust Company is a custodian that supports alternative assets such as real estate and private equity. Many large financial institutions and brokerage IRA providers do not allow these types of investments inside an IRA. You should research and compare custodians before opening an account.

Question 6

Can I open a self-directed IRA online?

Accepted Answer

Yes. You can open a self-directed IRA online by completing a new account application. You will typically need a clear digital copy of your driver's license or personal ID (PDF or image). If you are transferring or rolling over existing retirement funds, you will receive additional instructions after your account is established.

Question 7

Is a self-directed IRA the same as my Vanguard IRA?

Accepted Answer

A self-directed IRA allows you to invest in alternative assets such as real estate, private equity, and other non-traditional investments, and you are not limited to a pre-selected menu of publicly traded assets. Many brokerage IRAs, including those held at large investment firms, typically do not allow alternative assets, so they are not the same as a true self-directed IRA.

For Investors

For Professionals

Free Guide

Free Template

Compare Fees and Services

Your portfolio to go beyond traditional investment

Open Your Self-Directed IRA

Additionally for Solo 401(k)

Prefer to talk it through?

Why Self-Direct My Retirement Account?

Alternative Assets Are Not Allowed By Most Banks

Simple Pricing, Low Fees

Self-Directed IRAs

$199/yr

Self-Directed Solo 401(k)

$899/yr

Self-directed plans + ALTERNATIVE Assets

Control the assets in your retirement account.

IRAR Trust Company
100 Pringle Avenue Ste 650
Walnut Creek, California 94596

Solutions

SELF-DIRECTED IRAs

ALTERNATIVE INVESTMENTS

INDIVIDUAL INVESTORS

REALTORS

FINANCIAL PROFESSIONALS

INVESTMENT SPONSORS

Knowledge Center

GETTING STARTED WITH SELF-DIRECTED IRAs

GUIDES

BLOG

FAQs

SDIRA PROFESSIONAL NETWORK

REAL ESTATE IRA BASICS

COMPARE MY FEES

About IRAR

WHO WE ARE

CAREERS

CLIENT TESTIMONIALS

PRESS RELEASES

Updates & Support

CLIENT CENTER

FORMS

PAY FEES

CONTACT US

SIGN IN