Can I Transfer or Rollover My Existing Retirement Account to a Self-Directed IRA?
Which accounts are eligible to transfer or rollover?
The type of retirement account you have—and whether it’s with a current or former employer—will determine your eligibility. Use the table below as a quick guide:
Situation | Transfer/Rollover |
I have a 401(k) account with a former employer. | Yes, you can roll over to a self-directed IRA. If it is a Traditional 401(k), it becomes a Traditional Self-Directed IRA. If it’s a Roth 401(k), it rolls into a Roth Self-Directed IRA. |
I have a 403(b) account with a former employer. | Yes, you can roll over to a Traditional Self-Directed IRA. |
I have a Traditional IRA with a bank or brokerage. | Yes, you can transfer to a Self-Directed IRA of the same type (Traditional). |
I have a Roth IRA with a bank or brokerage. | Yes, you can transfer to a Self-Directed Roth IRA. |
I don’t have any retirement accounts but want to establish a new Self-Directed IRA. | Yes, you can open a new Traditional or Roth Self-Directed IRA and contribute up to the IRS limits. See IRS Publication 590 for contribution rules. |
I have a 401(k) or other company plan with a current employer. | Usually no. Most employer-sponsored plans restrict in-service rollovers unless you’re retirement age. Some exceptions may apply. |
Why roll over to a Self-Directed IRA?
A Self-Directed IRA allows you to break free from the Wall Street-only model and invest in real estate, private companies, promissory notes, precious metals, and more. Rolling over your retirement account gives you more control, better alignment with your expertise, and the potential for higher, tax-advantaged returns.
Need help with your transfer or rollover?
Our team at Directed IRA can guide you through every step—from initiating the transfer to executing your first investment.
Book a New Account Call with Directed IRA
Our entire Directed IRA team is friendly, knowledgeable, and genuinely excited to help you. Reach out to any of our specialists today and take the first step toward self-directing your IRA or Solo 401(k)!