The integration of cryptocurrency into retirement planning has evolved from a niche idea to a mainstream financial strategy. What once required sky-high fees and complex setups is now accessible, affordable, and user-friendly. As digital assets gain long-term credibility, more investors are turning to crypto IRAs—specifically Traditional and Roth crypto IRAs—to future-proof their retirement portfolios.
Whether you're looking to diversify with Bitcoin, Ethereum, or other altcoins, a self-directed IRA allows you to hold digital currencies within a tax-advantaged retirement account. But not all providers are created equal. The key lies in selecting a platform that balances low fees, security, coin selection, and ease of use.
Let’s explore the top five providers offering reliable, IRS-compliant crypto IRA solutions for 2025.
What Is a Crypto IRA?
While the IRS doesn’t officially recognize the term “crypto IRA,” it refers to a self-directed individual retirement account (IRA) that permits the inclusion of cryptocurrencies. Unlike traditional IRAs limited to stocks, bonds, and mutual funds, self-directed IRAs open the door to alternative assets like real estate, precious metals, and digital currencies.
Most mainstream brokers don’t support direct crypto holdings. However, specialized custodians make it possible to buy, sell, and store crypto within a retirement framework—complete with tax benefits. These accounts come in two primary forms:
- Traditional Crypto IRA: Contributions may be tax-deductible; taxes are paid upon withdrawal in retirement.
- Roth Crypto IRA: Contributions are made with after-tax dollars, but qualified withdrawals (including gains) are tax-free.
With crypto’s long-term growth potential, a Roth crypto IRA is especially appealing—allowing tax-free appreciation on high-volatility assets.
👉 Discover how a tax-advantaged crypto retirement account can work for you.
How We Ranked the Best Crypto IRAs
Our evaluation focused on several critical factors:
- Fees: Setup, maintenance, and trading costs.
- Cryptocurrency selection: Number and variety of available coins.
- Custody & security: Cold storage, insurance, and third-party partnerships.
- User experience: Interface simplicity, onboarding speed, and support.
- Account flexibility: Support for multiple IRA types and alternative assets.
Based on these criteria, here are the top five crypto IRA providers in 2025.
1. Alto IRA
Fees: $0 setup, $0 maintenance, 1% trading fee
Account Minimum: $0
Cryptocurrencies Available: 150+
Supported Accounts: Traditional, Roth, SEP IRA
Alto IRA stands out for its simplicity and low cost. It partners with Coinbase to handle crypto trading and custody, giving users access to over 150 digital assets. There are no hidden fees—just a flat 1% trading fee that covers both Alto and Coinbase services.
While Alto’s crypto IRA is limited to digital currencies (no real estate or stocks), its seamless integration with Coinbase makes it ideal for investors focused solely on crypto.
Pros:
- No setup or maintenance fees
- Broad coin selection via Coinbase
- User-friendly platform with fast onboarding
Cons:
- Cannot hold non-crypto alternative assets in the same account
- Relatively new in the market
👉 See how easy it is to start building your crypto retirement portfolio today.
2. iTrustCapital
Fees: $0 setup, $0 maintenance, 1% trading fee
Account Minimum: $1,000
Cryptocurrencies Available: 28
Supported Accounts: Traditional, Roth, SEP IRA
iTrustCapital specializes in crypto and precious metals IRAs. It’s one of the few platforms offering a crypto IRA rollover, allowing you to transfer existing holdings without selling—minimizing tax impact and transfer time.
Assets are custodied by Coinbase with segregated cold storage and up to $320 million in insurance. While the coin selection is more limited than competitors, it covers major assets like Bitcoin and Ethereum.
Pros:
- No recurring fees
- Coinbase-backed security
- Unique rollover functionality
Cons:
- $1,000 minimum investment
- Limited altcoin options
3. Rocket Dollar
Fees: $360–$600 setup, $15–$30 monthly
Account Minimum: $0
Cryptocurrencies Available: All supported by chosen exchange
Supported Accounts: Traditional, Roth, Solo 401(k)
Rocket Dollar takes a different approach: it establishes an LLC under your IRA, giving you full control over where and how you invest. You can use any crypto exchange—like Kraken or Gemini—as long as the account is properly titled.
This model suits hands-on investors who want access to niche or unlisted tokens. However, higher fees make it better for those with larger balances.
Pros:
- Maximum investment flexibility
- Supports real estate, startups, and crypto
- Ideal for complex portfolios
Cons:
- High administrative costs
- Requires active management
4. TradeStation
Fees: $0 setup, $100 annual maintenance, $1 + 0.50% trade fee
Account Minimum: $0
Cryptocurrencies Available: 5 (BTC, ETH, LTC, BCH, USDC)
Supported Accounts: Traditional, Roth, SEP, SIMPLE IRA
TradeStation blends traditional brokerage services with crypto access. Its self-directed IRA supports major "blue chip" cryptocurrencies—perfect for buy-and-hold investors.
Though the selection is narrow, its low trading fees (under 0.5%) and integration with a top-tier trading platform make it appealing for active traders.
Pros:
- Low per-trade costs
- Access to both stocks and crypto
- Trusted brokerage infrastructure
Cons:
- Limited to five cryptocurrencies
- $100 annual fee
5. Choice by Kingdom Trust
Fees: $0 setup, three plan options (free to $500/year)
Account Minimum: $0
Cryptocurrencies Available: 25
Supported Accounts: Traditional, Roth IRA
Choice offers unique custody options through Kraken:
- No Annual Fee Plan: Trade for free; assets are loaned out (no insurance).
- Cold Storage Plan: Secured by Fidelity Digital Assets.
- Hold Your Keys: Self-custody via Casa hardware wallets.
This flexibility caters to both cost-conscious and security-focused investors.
Pros:
- Multiple custody models
- Supports stocks and ETFs
- Low-cost entry point
Cons:
- Chatbot-only customer support
- Limited company history
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
Can I transfer crypto directly into an IRA?
No. The IRS requires IRA contributions to be made in cash. Cryptocurrency is treated as property, so you must sell your holdings first and contribute the proceeds.
Does Coinbase offer a crypto IRA?
Not directly. However, Alto IRA partners with Coinbase to let users trade over 150 coins through Coinbase’s exchange within an IRA structure.
Are crypto IRAs safe?
Yes—if you choose a reputable provider. Look for platforms using insured cold storage (like Coinbase or Fidelity), transparent fee structures, and clear compliance with IRS rules.
Which is better: Traditional or Roth crypto IRA?
A Roth IRA is often preferred for crypto due to tax-free growth. Since digital assets can appreciate significantly, paying taxes upfront can save you substantially in retirement.
Can I hold other assets in my crypto IRA?
It depends on the provider. Alto and iTrustCapital restrict accounts to crypto (and metals). Rocket Dollar and Choice allow mixed portfolios including stocks and ETFs.
How are crypto IRAs taxed?
Gains within the IRA aren’t taxed until withdrawal (Traditional) or not at all (Roth). Selling crypto inside the account incurs no capital gains tax—thanks to the tax-sheltered environment.
Ready to take control of your financial future? With the right platform, you can blend innovation with retirement security.