Self-Directed IRAs – Exercise Caution
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A self-directed IRA is an IRA held by a custodian that allows investments in a broader class of assets than allowed by most IRA custodians, such as real estate, promissory notes and private placement securities. Because they normally include such alternative assets, the risk and rewards of self-directed IRAs may be greater than those of traditional IRAs.
Self-directed IRAs are becoming increasingly common, and while there are many legitimate investments available, there is more risk of investors becoming defrauded due to the nature of the assets involved.
To help raise public awareness of how to avoid fraud, the Retirement Industry Trust Association and the North American Securities Administrators Association are offering a free webinar on July 18 at 2:00 p.m. Eastern. Click here to register.
Among the topics to be discussed are:
- What are self-directed IRA accounts and why are they useful?
- What are the warning signs of investment fraud in self-directed IRAs?
- What should investors do if they suspect fraudulent activity?
- How do securities regulators help protect investors who use self-directed IRA accounts?
Owners of self-directed IRAs should also be careful when purchasing and operating rental real estate within the IRA, as violations of a “prohibited transaction” could trigger tax penalties.
