Open an Account
Start your self-directed IRA.
Choose the account that fits your retirement strategy and apply online in minutes. Most Preferred Trust accounts are established within one business day.
Open in one day
Most accounts are established within one business day of receipt.
Nevada-chartered custodian
Regulated by the Nevada Financial Institutions Division.
$50 to establish
One-time IRA Account Establishment Fee.
Choose Your Account
Four IRA structures, one trusted custodian.
Each account type carries its own contribution limits, eligibility rules, and tax treatment. Select the structure that best aligns with your retirement goals — or contact our team for guidance.
Tax-deferred growth
Traditional IRA
Individuals seeking an immediate tax deduction and tax-deferred compounding until retirement.
- Pre-tax contributions may reduce current taxable income
- Earnings grow tax-deferred until distribution
- Required Minimum Distributions begin at age 73
2026 Limit
$7,500 / yr ($8,600 age 50+)
Tax Treatment
Tax-deferred
Tax-free withdrawals
Roth IRA
Investors who expect to be in the same or higher tax bracket in retirement and want tax-free qualified withdrawals.
- After-tax contributions, qualified withdrawals are tax-free
- No Required Minimum Distributions during the owner's lifetime
- Income eligibility limits apply
2026 Limit
$7,500 / yr ($8,600 age 50+)
Tax Treatment
Tax-free qualified withdrawals
For self-employed & small business
SEP IRA
Self-employed individuals, freelancers, and small business owners who want higher contribution limits with minimal administration.
- Employer-funded contributions up to 25% of compensation
- Higher annual limits than Traditional or Roth IRAs
- Simple to establish and maintain — no annual IRS filing
For small employers
SIMPLE IRA
Small businesses with 100 or fewer employees seeking an easy-to-administer retirement plan with required employer matching.
- Employee salary deferrals plus required employer contribution
- Lower start-up and operating costs than a 401(k)
- Employees are immediately 100% vested
Contribution limits reflect the 2026 IRS schedule. Preferred Trust Company does not provide tax, legal, or investment advice — please consult a qualified professional for guidance specific to your situation.
How It Works
From application to first investment.
A straightforward three-step path to opening, funding, and directing your self-directed IRA.
01
Choose your account type
Select the IRA structure that aligns with your tax strategy, employment situation, and retirement timeline.
The application can be completed online via Adobe E-Sign or by contacting us to receive the application in PDF format.
02
Submit your application
Complete the online application. Most accounts open within one business day.
03
Fund your account
Make an annual contribution, transfer from another IRA, or roll over from a qualified employer plan to begin directing investments.
Before You Begin
What to have ready.
Gather the following before starting the application to complete it in a single sitting.
Government-issued ID
Driver's license, state ID, or passport for identity verification.
Funding source details
Information for the contribution, transfer, or rollover that will fund the account.
Beneficiary information
Full name, date of birth, and Social Security number for primary and contingent beneficiaries.
Account Fees
Payable by check, credit card, or from the initial transfer.
Ready to Begin
Open your Preferred Trust account.
Apply online today. Our client services team is available to answer questions before, during, and after your application.