What is a Crypto IRA?
With a crypto IRA, investors can use their retirement savings to build a diversified portfolio of cryptocurrencies (digital assets) without incurring taxes (capital gains) on their profits.
Definition:
A crypto IRA (Individual Retirement Account) is a type of retirement account that allows investors to hold and trade cryptocurrencies in a tax-advantaged way.
Richard Knight
5 Best Crypto IRAs
- iTrust Capital - Best Overall IRA
- Bitcoin IRA - Excellent for Rollovers
- BitIRA - Best to Ease of Use
- Coin IRA - Top for Customer Service
- Broad Financial - Best Suited for Experienced Investors
The Best Crypto IRAS:
Here are our top choices for crypto IRA providers:
iTrust Capital
This company has been in operation since 2018 and has become one of the more popular IRA providers because of its low rates when compared to other IRA custodians. This IRA provider has a diverse selection of cryptocurrencies to choose from, including precious metals.
Services & Offerings:
iTrust Capital will help with all phases of the IRA, including IRA setup, tax reporting, platform support and maintenance. All trades are settled within 5 minutes and the platform is available 24/7.
Minimum Investment: $1,000 initial deposit + $500 for subsequent deposits
Trade Minimum: $30
Cryptocurrencies Offered: Bitcoin, Litecoin, Bitcoin Cash, Ripple, Stellar, Polkadot, Chainlink, Sushi, Polygon, EOS, Uniswap.
Bitcoin IRA
Bitcoin IRA offers a platform for investing in cryptocurrencies, including Bitcoin, as part of a retirement account. It provides a link between investors and legitimate custodians and exchanges in the crypto and precious metals sectors. This service includes a self-directed trading platform allowing 24/7 cryptocurrency transactions. Notably, Bitcoin IRA introduced the Saver IRA, an account linked to your regular savings or checking account for monthly automatic transfers, which can be as low as $100. These funds are auto-invested into cryptocurrencies of your choice, utilizing a strategy known as dollar-cost averaging. This account type offers a convenient way for individuals to start investing in cryptocurrencies without needing a large initial capital.
Bitcoin IRA does not require the formation of an LLC for investing, which is a requirement with some other companies offering similar services. This simplification results in a quicker and less costly setup process. Additionally, Bitcoin IRA has launched a mobile app for trading cryptocurrencies within a self-directed retirement account, providing features like advanced charts and custom price alerts.
Fees:
Regarding fees, Bitcoin IRA charges a one-time set-up fee ranging from 0.99% to 4.99% of the deposited funds, a transaction fee of 2% on all buy and sell orders, and an account security fee of 0.08% of assets. The minimum investment required to open an account is $3,000.
Bitcoin IRA is noted for its high level of transparency, which is significant in an industry often criticized for lacking clarity. The company's American executive team has maintained a reputation free from scandals or significant public criticisms. This aspect has been a confidence booster for customers considering Bitcoin IRA.
Moreover, Bitcoin IRA provides a Bitcoin Calculator on its platform, allowing users to input hypothetical investments and view potential past returns, helping in making more informed predictions for future investments. However, it's important to note that past performance is not indicative of future results.
Overall, Bitcoin IRA is considered a pioneer in cryptocurrency IRA investing, having over six years of experience. It's also a US-based company operating in compliance with federal laws and backed by a $100 million custody insurance policy.
Coin IRA
Coin IRA, established in 2017, is considered one of the first companies to offer cryptocurrency IRAs. It's well-rated, holding an A+ rating from the Better Business Bureau. The company offers a choice of either a self-service option or expert-guided assistance through the entire process, which involves transferring existing eligible retirement accounts or funding an IRA account through a checking or savings account. Additionally, Coin IRA has expanded its services to include Individual Non-IRA Custody accounts and offers a variety of 18 cryptocurrencies, including popular ones like Bitcoin, Ethereum, and Litecoin.
The company's management is led by CEO Brenda Whitman, who joined Coin IRA as COO at its inception and has extensive experience in the financial sector, particularly in the realm of precious metals and retirement portfolios. Coin IRA emphasizes an easy and secure setup process for its Crypto IRA accounts. It also offers both Traditional and Roth IRA options, where investments can grow tax-free. Coin IRA's security measures include insured, military-grade encrypted cold storage and industry-leading cybersecurity tools.
Fees:
Coin IRA's fee structure is competitive, with no account setup or maintenance fees. The transaction fees for self-trading are 1.25% for buy trades and 1% for sell trades. For guided account setups and trades, the transaction fee is slightly higher. The minimum investment for an IRA account with Coin IRA is $25,000, while non-IRA cash purchases have a lower minimum of $3,500. Their custodial services are comprehensive, including tracking IRA activity, reporting transactions to the IRS, and securely storing cryptocurrency.
Customers generally have positive views of Coin IRA, appreciating its no account setup and maintenance fees, expert assistance, and low transaction fees. However, some reviews mention limitations in the range of cryptocurrencies available and the requirement to trade within the IRA.
In conclusion, Coin IRA is appreciated for its ease of use, competitive fee structure, and range of services. It stands out as a viable option for those interested in including cryptocurrency in their retirement portfolios. As with any investment decision, it's advisable to conduct thorough research and consider seeking advice from a financial advisor.
Broad Financial
Broad Financial is recognized for its self-directed Bitcoin IRAs and offers a distinct approach to cryptocurrency investment in retirement accounts. The company specializes in Bitcoin IRAs but also provides the flexibility to invest in any cryptocurrency using a self-directed IRA. They support investors by creating and filing a specialized LLC, which is then used to open an investment account for funding bitcoin purchases or other cryptocurrencies.
Fees:
A notable feature of Broad Financial is their flat-rate fee structure, which differentiates them from other companies that use a brokerage model. The startup fee is approximately $1,295, with an annual maintenance fee of about $320. These fees are consistent regardless of the investment amount. It's important to note that Broad Financial does not charge transaction and asset allocation fees, which is an advantage over some competitors.
Broad Financial offers several IRA options, including a traditional self-directed IRA, a checkbook IRA, and a Solo 401(k) plan. The checkbook IRA and Solo 401(k) provide more flexibility and control over investments, allowing for a wider range of investment choices beyond traditional assets. The Solo 401(k) plan is particularly suited for self-employed individuals without full-time employees and offers the option of taking a loan against the account and investing in a Roth subaccount.
Customer feedback for Broad Financial is generally positive, with high ratings on platforms like Shopper Approved and an A+ rating from the Better Business Bureau. Clients appreciate the company’s customer service, responsiveness, and expertise in their field.
Broad Financial’s products are not limited to cryptocurrencies; they allow investments in a variety of alternative assets, including precious metals and real estate. However, it's noted that the company does not provide detailed information about available products on its website, which might require direct discussion with an account representative.
Broad Financial offers a unique approach to IRA investments, especially for those interested in self-directed options with checkbook control and a diverse range of alternative assets. The company's transparent fee structure and positive customer feedback make it a considerable option for retirement investments in cryptocurrencies and other assets.