The f act remains that self-directed checkbook IRA s are vastly outnumbered by standard IRAs. Plainly speaking, a truly self-directed IRA is one where the IRA owner does not have to filter every decision through a self-directed IRA custodian such as banks and other, major financial institutions that only offer traditional IRA custodian relationships. This means that the plan documents of these custodians, not actual IRA laws, limit your investment actions as a result. The central idea of a self directed IRA checkbook is to retain as much freedom as possible while being governed by a plan document compliant with the letter of applicable federal laws. The formation of an LLC within an IRA is one plan for expanding that freedom. With this arrangement, the IRA owner can write checks for investments rather than having to ask the IRA custodian to write checks - and then paying the required fees for the service. In the hands of an experienced investor, such self-direction can be a tremendously powerful tool. It can also be a very self-destructive tool in the hands of an inexperienced, whimsical investor. An investor has to be willing to perform due diligence on every investment opportunity to get the most from a self-directed IRA. A good advisor can help you avoid costly mistakes, but in general, they will not take the time to do your research for you.  There's only one person who will do that, and that person is: you. The answer to the question of when is the time to open a self-directed IRA is: any time is a good time to open a self-directed IRA, but learning how to consistently make money with your money is a prerequisite to starting with retirement funds changes. It's a good idea starting a relationship with an IRA advisor as they can help point you in the right direction. They will not do your work for you, however.  With any investment decision, it's imperative to have all the important data regarding your options when finalizing your decision.  The people around you will provide advice as advisors, but at the end of the day, you are both the decision-maker and the one who owns that decision.  This is very true with studying and learning the ins and outs of investing in alternative investments as you consider self-directed checkbook IRAs.  As with many things, doing your research beforehand is wise preparation that will serve you well in the long run.