Traditional self-directed IRA providers built their businesses on agent-dependent sales and support, and paper-heavy processes. That overhead gets passed to clients in the form of elevated setup fees and ongoing charges.

We built a digital-first model from the ground up, with structured education, a best-in-class knowledge base, and technology-enhanced support that eliminate overhead without compromising on expertise or compliance. Help is available around the clock, not just during business hours.

The result: setup fees and total cost of ownership at roughly half the industry average, with no per-transaction or asset-value-based fees. As your plan grows and your investment activity increases, your costs don't.

Read more: How are your fees so much less than other providers?

If you have an IRA — yes. IRAs are required by law to have a custodian: a regulated institution that holds the account and reports to the IRS. With a Checkbook IRA, that custodian's role is deliberately limited.  They handle contributions, distributions, beneficiary designations, and annual reporting, but play no role in your day-to-day investment activity. Self-Directed Plans works exclusively with IRAR Trust Company as custodian for all IRA plans.

If you have a Solo 401(k) — no. As the plan trustee and sponsoring business owner, you serve in that administrative role yourself. No third-party custodian is required.

Read more: Do I need a custodian?

An IRA Trust is a private contract governed by state trust laws.  Since a trust is not a state-chartered business entity, there is no state registration required.  This keeps your private personal information out of public databases.