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This website was created to help individuals determine the differences between self-directed IRA providers. While Traditional IRA's can be administered through many providers, we chose to focus this website on truly-self directed IRA providers.

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This section of our website was created to show a direct fee comparison among different IRA providers. Below you'll see different scenarios based on different investment types and values. This information was constructed using upto date fee schedules from provider websites. It is for information purposes only and should be confirmed with the providers to ensure information is still current. IRA provider fees are subject to change and these example may become out dated temporarily.


These fee calculations are based purely on buy and hold/mature situations. In the event one needs overnight mail delivery, money wired, etc - additional fees apply may apply through some/all providers. See the current fee schedules of each provider for upto date accurate comparisons. Also be aware that some IRA providers have minimum account balances or "value" minimums. Inquire to make sure no additional fees apply to your account with regards to these minimums.

Fee Scenario #1:
$10,000 investment, 1 investment transaction in an unsecured note.
Investment date: January 1, 20XX

New Direction IRA
Pensco Trust
Equity Trust
Lincoln Trust
Poly Comp
New Account Setup & transfer or rollover funds into new account
$50
$50
$50
$350
$165
Transaction Fees
$95
$0
$0
$300
$60
Annual Administration/Holding Account Fee(s)
$195
$463
$190
$100
$260
Total Annual Fees for Year 1:
$340
$513
$240
$750
$485
Annual Fees for subsequent years:
$195
$463
$190
$300
$260
Conclusion: The two lowest fees for this scenario are through Equity Trust and New Direction IRA. Equity Trust is $100 less expensive in the initial year of the investment and $5 less each subsequent year. In the event this scenario changes in value, New Direction IRA would be the long term value leader if the note value exceeds $15,000.