The Best Self-Directed IRA Companies of 2025

What is a Self-Directed IRA?

A Self-Directed IRA is an individual retirement account that gives you more control over your investment choices compared to a standard IRA. With an SDIRA, you can invest in a variety of assets, such as:

• Real estate
• Precious metals
• Private companies
• Cryptocurrency
• Tax liens

This flexibility allows you to diversify your portfolio beyond traditional stocks and bonds, making it a powerful tool for investors looking to grow their wealth. However, since SDIRAs require more hands-on management and a thorough understanding of the rules governing alternative assets, it’s essential to choose a reliable provider.

Why Choose a Self-Directed IRA?

Self-Directed IRAs offer several benefits, including:

• Increased control: You can make your own investment decisions without needing to rely on financial advisors.
• Diversification: Access to a wide range of alternative investments helps you diversify your retirement portfolio and reduce risk.
• Potential for higher returns: By investing in niche assets like real estate or private equity, you may be able to achieve higher returns compared to traditional stocks and bonds.
• Tax advantages: Like traditional IRAs, SDIRAs offer tax-deferred or tax-free growth, depending on the type of account (traditional or Roth).

Key Factors When Choosing the Best Self-Directed IRA Companies

When selecting an SDIRA provider, there are several important factors to consider:

1. Account Fees: Look for a provider with transparent fees that fit your budget. Some companies charge annual account maintenance fees, transaction fees, and asset storage fees.
2. Investment Options: Make sure the company offers a wide range of alternative investment options, such as real estate, private companies, or precious metals.
3. Customer Support: Choose a company with excellent customer service that can guide you through the complexities of self-directed investing.
4. Ease of Use: The platform should be user-friendly, allowing you to manage your investments and track your portfolio easily.
5. Security: Ensure the company offers robust security features to protect your retirement assets.

The Best Self-Directed IRA Companies in 2025

Here are some of the top rated self-directed IRA companies that stand out in 2025:

1. Equity Trust

Equity Trust is one of the most established SDIRA providers in the market, offering a wide range of alternative investments, including real estate, precious metals, and cryptocurrency. With a solid reputation and decades of experience, they are an excellent choice for investors seeking personalized support and flexible investment options.

• Account Fees: Competitive fee structure
• Investment Options: Real estate, cryptocurrency, private equity
• Customer Support: 24/7 customer support
• Platform: Easy-to-use online platform

2. IRA Financial Group

IRA Financial Group specializes in providing self-directed retirement accounts for real estate investors and entrepreneurs. They offer tax-advantaged accounts with a focus on alternative investments. The company’s customer service is top-notch, with financial experts available to help guide you through complex investment strategies.

• Account Fees: Low annual fees
• Investment Options: Real estate, private equity, startups
• Customer Support: Highly rated customer support
• Platform: Easy navigation and setup

3. New Direction Trust Company

New Direction Trust Company offers a wide array of alternative investment options, including real estate, precious metals, and private equity. They provide investors with a flexible, user-friendly platform and personalized customer support to guide them in managing their self-directed IRA accounts.

• Account Fees: Reasonable and transparent fees
• Investment Options: Real estate, gold and silver, cryptocurrency
• Customer Support: Personalized, expert support
• Platform: Advanced tools for managing investments

4. Advanta IRA

Advanta IRA offers a high level of flexibility with an easy-to-navigate platform for managing self-directed IRAs. They are known for their strong customer service and a broad range of alternative investments, from real estate to private equity and notes.

• Account Fees: Moderate fees with transparent pricing
• Investment Options: Real estate, private equity, tax liens
• Customer Support: Dedicated IRA specialists
• Platform: Simple platform for beginners and experts alike

5. Rocket Dollar

Rocket Dollar is a newer player in the SDIRA space but has quickly earned a strong reputation due to its innovative approach. They offer a seamless process for setting up self-directed IRAs and provide a wide range of investment options, including real estate, startups, and cryptocurrency.

• Account Fees: Flat fee structure
• Investment Options: Real estate, startups, private equity
• Customer Support: Efficient customer service
• Platform: Intuitive, easy-to-use mobile app

Comparison Chart: Best Self-Directed IRA Companies

Conclusion

When choosing a provider for your self-directed IRA, it’s crucial to select a company that aligns with your investment goals and offers the flexibility to diversify your portfolio. Whether you’re interested in real estate, precious metals, or cryptocurrency, the top rated self-directed IRA companies listed in this guide—like Equity Trust, IRA Financial Group, and New Direction Trust—offer diverse options, excellent customer service, and robust platforms for managing your assets.

Before making your decision, consider factors like account fees, available investment options, and the platform’s ease of use. By doing thorough research, you can find the best self-directed IRA company to help you grow your retirement savings and reach your long-term financial goals in 2025 and beyond.