Is It Possible to Make Investments Without Paying Tax?
A self-directed IRA is probably the only legal way with which you can reap the benefits of a healthy real estate market. That's right; you can make investments on a tax-deferred basis in land and residences. But of course there is no such thing as a free lunch. The only catch here is that you would be able to use the money generated from the investments only after the age of 59 and a half.
The self-directed IRA is one of the most efficient and surefire ways of having comfort in the post-retirement life. Even better news is that you will not be limited to investing in just real estate with your self-directed IRA retirement account. In fact, unlike the other more traditional retirement plans including the 401k, you can invest in pretty much anything you like. There are a few restrictions in place by the IRS like alcohol and collectibles. You should take a look at this list just to be on the safe side before you go all out on an investment spree.
If you feel the need to withdraw your profit out of your self-directed IRA account before reaching the age of 59, you will be liable to pay tax on that amount apart from a small penalty. You can take the best value out of your investment only by reaching that age. By the time you have all the money at your disposal, you will have too much to handle. You can buy that house by the seaside to live out your golden years or even go on that vacation that you planned with your significant other all your life.
Apart from being able to invest in different types of non-traditional assets on a tax-free basis, there are plenty of other advantages of starting up a self-directed IRA account. You get to keep your checkbook in your own pocket, meaning that you can make investments whenever you want without the need to contact your custodian or broker to have them approve your transactions. As a result, you wouldn't have to pay any transaction fees either.
Remember that you should verify that the company or broker you are trusting with your money is qualified for this job. The best way to do this is by contacting the authorities who handle these affairs in your state. Don't go with your instincts because it is better to be safe than sorry.