Episode

7 May 2026 · 30 min

0:00

In this episode of the Directed IRA Podcast, host Mark Kohler interviews attorney and author Matt Sorensen about self‑directed IRA LLCs, often called checkbook IRAs. They explain that an IRA‑owned single‑member LLC is a disregarded entity wholly owned by the retirement account, allowing the account holder to act as manager and sign checks directly from the LLC’s bank account. The conversation covers the practical benefits—instant access to funds, ability to purchase real estate, livestock, crypto mining equipment, private loans, or even a racehorse—while maintaining the tax‑advantaged status of the IRA. They stress critical compliance rules: the manager cannot receive compensation or engage in prohibited transactions (citing the Ellis v. Commissioner case), and the operating agreement must meet custodian requirements. The hosts walk through the step‑by‑step setup process: open a self‑directed IRA, fund it, have KQS Lawyers create the LLC, open a Titan Bank account, and coordinate funding; typical timelines are 2–3 weeks and costs are roughly $1,200 for LLC formation, $495 for the IRA custodian, plus a $50 investment fee. Ongoing state filing fees and maintenance plans are discussed, as are payment options for fees (IRA‑paid vs. personal credit card). They debunk myths about custodian restrictions on manager roles and warn against influencer advice lacking attorney‑client privilege. The episode concludes with promotional information about workshops, summits, and training programs for accountants, and a disclaimer that listeners should seek professional legal and tax advice.

Chapters

More from MARK

28:00
Podcast

Roth IRA vs Roth 401(k) — 5 Differences That Cost People Money

4w ago
22:50
Podcast

ROBS vs Self-Directed IRA

1mo ago
26:54
Podcast

Investing in Litigation Finance with Your IRA

1mo ago
16:03
Podcast

The Rule of 72 Explained - How to Double Your Money

1mo ago
1:00:05
Podcast

Passing Down Your IRA or 401(k) Tax-Free with an Inherited IRA

2mo ago
51:24
Podcast

Roth IRA vs Roth 401(k) - Where Should You Put Your Money?

2mo ago
12:57
Podcast

New Legislation Targets Self-Directed IRAs

2mo ago
25:39
Podcast

Trump Accounts and How To Optimize Them

2mo ago
59:11
Podcast

Investing in Physical Gold & Silver with Your IRA

3mo ago
16:57
Podcast

Investing with your Self-directed HSA

3mo ago
14:19
Podcast

Why You Shouldn't Buy Real Estate in Your IRA

3mo ago
See all content