Open a self-directed IRA with Alto

Open your Alto IRA

Opening your Alto IRA is the first step toward taking control of your retirement investing. A self-directed IRA (SDIRA) works just like a Traditional or Roth IRA, but gives you the flexibility to invest beyond stocks and bonds and into private market assets like private equity, venture capital and private credit.

With Alto, opening an account is fast, fully online and designed to be simple from start to finish. You’ll choose the type of IRA that fits your goals and complete a short setup to establish your account and verify your identity. Since Alto is a custodian, compliance is baked into the process.

Steps to open a self-directed IRA with Alto

Account selection

With Alto, you can choose between a Roth, Traditional or SEP 
self-directed IRA. Each offers the same private market access, but with differing tax treatment, eligibility requirements and distribution rules. Compare SDIRAs types prior to making a selection.

Identification and documentation

Identity verification is a required step of the account opening process. We will ask for your personal information, including a tax ID. We may also need you to provide a government-issued ID such as a driver's license or passport. Social Security information will also be needed.

Beneficiary designation

The account opener may name beneficiaries who would inherit the account upon the holder's death. This section will ask for the beneficiary’s full legal name, date of birth, tax identification number and relationship to the account holder.

Completing these sections accurately helps ensure a quick and smooth account opening. Once the form has been successfully submitted and upon confirmation that all information provided was complete and accurate, the account will be opened and ready for funding.

Why choose Alto for your self-directed IRA?

For more information on opening a self-directed IRA with Alto, read this guide.

Ready to open your self-directed IRA?

Start your Alto account today and invest in private markets with tax advantages.