SEC issues warning about IRA fraud, cryptocurrency 

1. Find a good custodian. Major investment firms, like Fidelity Investments, won’t allow alternative investments as an underlying asset in an IRA. But Wolverton says the vast majority of those in the self-directed IRA business are honest. You can find them by checking out Retirement Industry Trust Association members here. The owner of the self-directed retirement plan may choose to use a securities broker to help them select listed stocks, bonds and mutual funds as investments in the retirement plan.

Securities brokers are regulated by the Financial Industry Regulatory Authority, and their backgrounds can be checked here. Mohr said to do your research; not all custodians handle all types of assets, so it’s important to understand their services as well as their fees. Bishop said it’s important to find a custodian who is not being promoted by someone selling something. And “if you can’t find a custodian…