A crypto retirement IRA enables US investors to hold digital assets in a tax-advantaged retirement account. This guide explores crypto retirement IRAs in more detail, including how to open an account through Crypto.com.
This content is for informational purposes only and isn’t tax advice. Crypto.com doesn’t provide tax advice – please consult a qualified tax professional regarding your specific situation.
A crypto IRA (Individual Retirement Account) is a self-directed account that enables US investors to hold digital assets such as Bitcoin, Ethereum and other cryptocurrencies, within a tax-advantaged retirement account.
Unlike other and more traditional IRAs, which typically limit investors to bonds, stocks and mutual funds, a self-directed IRA (SDIRA) has an expanded range of eligible assets. These can include:
Crypto IRAs must be opened through an IRS-compliant custodian. The custodian is responsible for recordkeeping, reporting and compliance. And there are several IRS rules that must be followed including restrictions on withdrawals, personal ownership and asset handling.
There are generally two types of IRAs, each with their own specific tax-advantaged treatment:
If you’re thinking about retirement planning, you may have come across cryptocurrencies as an investment type. This is because they’re increasingly viewed as a long-term diversification tool because of their:
Crypto IRAs work in the same way as other self-directed IRAs, but they simply include digital assets such as Bitcoin.
Crypto purchases in an individual retirement account must be made via a custodian or administrator that meets IRS requirements. This custodian then takes care of reporting (forms 5498 and 1099-R), contribution limits, prohibited transactions and secure asset management.
Traditional IRA contributions may reduce taxable income, but any withdrawals during retirement are taxed as ordinary income. Roth IRA requires investors to pay their taxes upfront. However, qualified withdrawals including gains may be tax-free.
Current IRS guidelines are as follows:
* As of 2026
Typical brokerages hold securities in custodial accounts. Crypto IRAs must handle secure digital asset storage, on-chain transactions, 24/7 market access and additional compliance safeguards.
While different to traditional brokerages, users can efficiently manage their crypto IRA through a platform like Crypto.com. The platform enables users to securely buy, hold and track eligible crypto assets and comes with features such as performance monitoring, price alerts, recurring buys and diversified options; all integrated with an IRS-compliant custodian structure.
Below is a summary of the main advantages of a self-directed IRA. Whether this investment type is right for you will depend on several personal factors including your current investment position, your financial goals and your attitude to risk.
Including crypto in your retirement portfolio can balance risk and reward as digital assets often move independently of traditional markets.
Depending on whether the IRA is Traditional or Roth, you may benefit from tax-deferred growth, potential tax-free withdrawals and more exposure to high-volatility assets.
Bitcoin is often viewed as a digital store of value, appealing to those investors in search of purchasing power in inflationary environments.
Crypto markets operate around the clock and platforms like Crypto.com also give you access to real-time tracking, transparent pricing and secure operations.
A crypto IRA gives investors a structured and compliant way to hold digital assets long term, which can align with retirement timelines.
Of course, it’s important to note that returns aren’t guaranteed and cryptocurrency prices are highly volatile.
Below is a step-by-step process for opening crypto IRA accounts using Crypto.com.
Through Crypto.com, users can access Bitcoin, Ethereum, stablecoins and diversified crypto basket options. However, Crypto purchases in an IRA must follow strict guidelines:
With this in mind, maintaining proper records and annual reporting is essential for compliance.
Feature | Roth IRA | Traditional IRA |
Contributions | Post-tax | Pre-tax |
Withdrawals | Tax-free (conditions apply) | Taxed as income |
Suitable for | Those expecting higher future tax rates | Those seeking upfront tax deductions |
One similarity is that both can hold crypto when structured as self-directed IRAs. For further information, visit the IRS Publication 590.
A crypto IRA will come with traditional retirement risks and digital asset risks. This includes:
This is why a balanced approach to investment can be a good idea to help align with long-term financial goals.
With a focus on security, transparency and user-friendliness, Crypto.com offers long-term investors:
What is a crypto IRA??
A Crypto IRA is a self-directed Individual Retirement Account that enables you to hold cryptocurrency in a tax-advantaged retirement account.
Can you buy crypto in an IRA?
Yes, however crypto must be purchased through an IRS-compliant custodian within a self-directed IRA -– and follow strict rules.
How do taxes work for Crypto IRAs?
Traditional IRAs offer tax-deferred growth. Roth IRAs offer the potential for tax-free withdrawals under qualifying conditions.
What is the best crypto IRA?
This depends on several personal factors, including your current financial position, age, income, savings and appetite for risk.
Can I transfer my existing IRA or 401(k) into a Crypto IRA?
Yes, many plans allow rollovers into a self-directed IRA structure.
What crypto can I hold in an IRA?
Eligible assets vary by custodian but typically include Bitcoin, Ethereum and other major cryptocurrencies.
Are crypto IRAs safe?
No investment is without risk and crypto assets may experience significant volatility or loss of value.
How does Crypto.com support long-term investors?
Crypto.com offers secure infrastructure, intuitive tools, diversification features and access to major digital assets, all of which can streamline the management of a retirement portfolio.
Important information: This is informational content sponsored by Crypto.com and should not be considered as investment advice. Trading cryptocurrencies carries risks, such as price volatility and market risks. Before deciding to trade cryptocurrencies, consider your risk appetite. Services, features and other benefits referenced in this article may be subject to eligibility requirements, token holdings, and may change at the discretion of Crypto.com. Past performance may not indicate future results. There's no assurance of future profitability, and content may not reflect current opinions
Crypto.com IRA services are offered to eligible U.S. users only. Eligible customers can open a Traditional IRA or Roth IRA with Foris Capital US, which supports stocks and cash, and a separate Traditional IRA or Roth IRA with Foris DAX Trust Company, LLC, which supports digital assets only. All services and features related to digital assets apply to the IRA provided by Foris DAX Trust Company, LLC, not by Foris Capital US, LLC. IRA features are subject to regulatory requirements and availability. Cryptocurrency carries risk, including possible loss of principal. The taxation of digital asset transactions is subject to significant uncertainty, particularly for retirement accounts. Users should consult with independent tax and financial advisors regarding their individual situation and treatment of digital asset transactions.
Securities are being offered to U.S. persons through Foris Capital US LLC. Foris Capital US LLC is an SEC-registered broker dealer and a member of FINRA/SIPC. All stock deposit bonuses are provided by and subject to Foris Capital US LLC's sole discretion. All amounts shown are representative.
*Subject to terms and conditions, including Level Up status. Please review the IRA account agreement.
** Recurring Buy is only available in an IRA provided by Foris DAX Trust Company, LLC, not by Foris Capital US, LLC. Whale Baskets is only available in an IRA provided through Foris Capital US, LLC.
