Mountain West IRA Review

Mountain West IRA is a leading provider of self-directed IRA and 401K plans that offer a wide range of retirement options to meet the unique needs of individual investors.

The company has earned a reputation for providing exceptional customer service and on-demand education options, including live workshops, webinars, and how-to guides.

Mountain West IRA allows investors to invest in assets they understand and prefer, with two fee structures available: per-asset-based and value-based.

In this article, we will provide an objective review of Mountain West IRA's fee structure, investment options, types of IRAs offered, customer support services provided by the company as well as their ratings in the industry.

Our aim is to help prospective investors make informed decisions about investing in a self-directed IRA plan with Mountain West IRA.

We will also consider reviews from satisfied customers who have used the company's services before to get insights into what makes them stand out as a preferred option for individuals seeking alternative retirement investment opportunities.

Disclosure: Some of the links in this article are from sponsors. The list below is an honest review gathered from thorough research, experience, and consumer-based feedback. 

About Mountain West IRA

Mountain West IRA is a highly-rated independent provider of self-directed IRA and 401K plans that offers different types of retirement plans to suit the needs of each investor.

The company has been in business since 2005, with two principals listed as management and a small business quality to the website.

Despite having a smaller staff than many other IRA providers, Mountain West IRA has an astonishing number of positive reviews on various review websites from satisfied customers.

One factor that impresses customers is the fee structure that makes it easy for investors to open new IRAs.

Mountain West IRA offers two fee structures: per-asset-based and value-based, providing an appropriate fee schedule for every type of investor and their needs.

And, the maximum amount Mountain West IRA charges is $462.50 each quarter.

The company also allows private equity investment options that would enable investors to register corporations to protect their assets.

Investors can benefit from multiple investment options offered by Mountain West IRA like alternative assets including precious metals, real estate, and promissory notes.

They provide on-demand education options including webinars, live workshops, how-to guides for investors' understanding and preferences.

Different types of IRAs are also available such as Roth IRA which doesn't allow tax write-offs but no income taxes upon withdrawal at retirement age while traditional IRAs may be better suited for regular jobholders setting aside fixed amounts each year; SEP plan for self-employed individuals; SIMPLE IRA for businesses employing fewer than 100 people.

In addition to these features, Mountain West IRA values the safety and security of each investor ensuring confidentiality throughout their transactions with the company making them one of the top choices among self-directed IRA plan providers.

Management and Board at Mountain West IRA

The leadership team at Mountain West IRA consists solely of its principles, Jon Galane and Lisa Galane.

As the founder and member of the National Association of Securities Dealers, Jon Galane brings extensive experience in the financial industry to the company. He is also a member of the American Banking Association, which further attests to his credibility as an expert in his field.

Meanwhile, Lisa Galane manages compliance and procedural back ends for clients with her background in Morgan Stanley. Despite having a smaller management structure than most IRA providers, Mountain West IRA has established governance practices that have earned them numerous positive reviews from satisfied clients.

The decision-making process is likely more streamlined since there are fewer individuals involved in it.

Their organizational culture seems to prioritize client satisfaction given that they offer various educational options and network opportunities for investors.

Mountain West IRA's leadership team demonstrates a commitment to providing quality services for their clients while maintaining high standards of professionalism.

Their membership in reputable industry associations further reinforces their credibility as experts in self-directed IRAs. And, their governance practices reflect a focus on effective decision-making processes and fostering a client-centric organizational culture.

Investment Options

Investors who opt for self-directed IRA plans have a variety of investment options available to them.

One popular option is investing in promissory notes, which are essentially loans made to individuals or businesses.

Promissory notes offer potentially high yields and can provide diversification benefits to an investor's portfolio.

They also come with risks, including the possibility of default by the borrower.

Another investment option available through Mountain West IRA is precious metals. Investing in precious metals such as gold, silver, and platinum can provide a hedge against inflation and economic uncertainty.

Precious metals can be held physically or through exchange-traded funds (ETFs) that track the price of these metals. Investors should keep in mind that precious metal investments may not always perform well and may require additional fees for storage and insurance.

Real estate is another investment option available through self-directed IRA plans offered by Mountain West IRA. Real estate investments can include rental properties, commercial properties, or even raw land purchases.

Real estate offers the potential for long-term growth and income from rental payments but comes with added responsibilities such as property management and maintenance costs.

Investors should also be aware of any tax implications related to real estate investments within their IRA plan.

Investors who choose self-directed IRA plans offered by Mountain West IRA have access to various investment options beyond traditional stocks and bonds.

These options include promissory notes, precious metals, real estate, among others that allow investors more control over their retirement planning strategy while providing opportunities for portfolio diversification.

Investors should carefully consider each investment opportunity's risks before committing any funds to ensure they align with their financial goals and risk tolerance levels.

Common IRA Plans

Common IRA plans offer a range of retirement planning options for individuals, including Traditional IRA, Roth IRA, SEP IRA, and SIMPLE IRA.

Each plan has its own unique features and advantages that cater to different individuals based on their financial goals and tax situations.

Traditional IRA allows individuals to make tax-deductible contributions up to a certain limit each year. 

These contributions are not taxed until they are withdrawn at retirement age. Once withdrawals begin, the individual is then required to pay taxes on both the original contribution amount and any earnings accrued over time. There are mandatory minimum distributions (RMDs) that must be taken starting at age 72.

On the other hand, Roth IRA contributions are made with after-tax dollars but have no income tax liability when funds are withdrawn at retirement age.

This means that investors can withdraw all of their contributions and earnings without paying federal taxes.

There is no requirement for RMDs with Roth IRAs.

But, there are contribution limits based on income level for both Traditional and Roth IRAs.

It's essential to note that individuals have the option to rollover funds from one type of IRA to another without incurring penalties or taxes as long as it is done correctly.

That's why it's crucial to consult a financial advisor before making any changes or decisions regarding your retirement savings plan as these changes could impact your overall tax situation significantly.

Business IRA Plans

Business IRA plans provide retirement savings options for small business owners and their employees, offering tax benefits and the potential to accumulate wealth over time.

Two popular types of plans are the SEP IRA and SIMPLE IRA.

A SEP IRA allows self-employed individuals or small business owners to contribute up to 25% of their annual income, with a maximum contribution limit of $58,000 in 2021.

On the other hand, a SIMPLE IRA is designed for companies with fewer than 100 employees and allows both employers and employees to make contributions.

One significant advantage of these plans is tax benefits. Contributions made by employers are tax-deductible, reducing taxable income for the year.

Earnings on investments grow tax-free until withdrawals are made during retirement.

This can result in substantial savings over time compared to traditional investment accounts where taxes are paid annually on capital gains or dividends earned.

There are also potential disadvantages to consider when choosing a Business IRA plan.

For example, administrative expenses can be significant for companies that offer 401K plans since they require more management due to higher contribution limits and matching requirements.

Investment strategies may be limited depending on the plan type chosen.

Self-directed IRAs like those offered by Mountain West IRA may be better suited for investors seeking more control over their investment choices beyond traditional stocks and bonds.

Assets Available to Invest at Mountain West IRA

When exploring the assets available for investment at Mountain West IRA, individuals can diversify their portfolio with alternative investments such as precious metals and real estate, which have long been considered safe havens during times of economic uncertainty.

Real estate investments offer investors the opportunity to purchase physical property that can appreciate in value over time while generating rental income.

Precious metals like gold and silver are also popular options among investors seeking a hedge against inflation and stock market volatility.

Promissory notes are another asset available for investment at Mountain West IRA, allowing investors to invest in secured or unsecured loans and mortgages.

This option is particularly attractive for those seeking fixed-income investments with steady returns.

Mutual funds and stock options are not offered by Mountain West IRA, as the company specializes in self-directed retirement plans that allow for greater flexibility when it comes to choosing investment options.

Mountain West IRA offers a range of alternative assets for investors looking to diversify their portfolios beyond traditional stocks and bonds.

With a focus on self-directed retirement plans, the company allows investors to choose from a variety of assets they understand and prefer, including real estate, precious metals, and promissory notes.

Mountain West IRA Fee Schedule

Investors interested in purchasing self-directed IRA plans from Mountain West can choose between a value-based or flat fee structure, with the company's fees being more reasonable than many of its competitors.

The fee schedule for Mountain West IRA is hosted by a third-party provider, and investors must sign up for the service to view it.

Unlike most providers of self-directed IRA plans, Mountain West is one of the few companies that allow clients to choose a value-based fee structure or a flat fee that's paid annually.

The maximum amount Mountain West IRA charges each quarter is $462.50, and investors may choose to pay $75 each quarter for each asset.

Fees are based on fluctuations in the stock market, and the best way to choose a self-directed IRA provider is to research the options that each one offers and base your decision on your investment needs.

The marginal rate multiplier refers to the proportion of increase or decrease in the final income resulting from investing or withdrawing assets from an account, and investors are charged a lower marginal rate when they invest substantial amounts, and the value of their IRA plans increases.

Mountain West IRS offers an annual fee structure based on an investor's IRA plan value. Investors are charged approximately $1,850 if they opt for this value-based fee structure.

Most of the providers that offer self-directed IRA plans have similar pricing structures.

Unlike most self-directed IRA providers who use a value-based structure to determine fees; Mountain West allows clients to select between two-fee structures: per-asset-based and value-based fees.

Mountain West IRA Customer Support

For those seeking efficient and accessible customer service, Mountain West IRA may not be the ideal option due to the lack of live chat support. 

While phone and email support are available, some investors find the absence of live chat with a representative a deterrent. It's essential to note that Mountain West IRA's representatives are knowledgeable and responsive, making up for the lack of 24/7 availability.

In terms of response time, investors can expect a prompt reply within one business day or less.

The company's website provides an easy-to-use contact form that ensures quick communication with their representatives.

Mountain West IRA has an extensive FAQ section on their website that addresses common questions about self-directed IRAs and alternative investments.

Despite the lack of live chat support, Mountain West IRA's communication skills and problem-solving abilities make them a great option for those looking to open or manage their self-directed IRA account.

Investors who prioritize accessibility over other factors may want to consider other providers.

If you're looking for personalized attention from knowledgeable representatives who value confidentiality and security while offering various alternative investment options and educational resources, Mountain West IRA is worth considering.

• Knowledgeable representatives
• Prompt response time
• Extensive FAQ section

Reviews From Customers

Customer feedback and ratings play a crucial role in choosing the right self-directed IRA plan provider, and Mountain West IRA stands out with its impressive customer satisfaction ratings.

With nearly 70 positive reviews from satisfied investors on various review websites, the company has established itself as one of the highest-rated providers in the industry.

The testimonials indicate that customers are pleased with their user experience, service quality, and overall satisfaction. Analyzing customer feedback can help potential investors evaluate a company's strengths and weaknesses.

The positive reviews for Mountain West IRA suggest that customers are happy with the level of support they receive from the company.

The testimonials also suggest that investors appreciate the educational resources offered by Mountain West IRA, such as webinars and how-to guides.

These factors contribute to high levels of customer satisfaction. Mountain West IRA has received overwhelmingly positive reviews from its customers, indicating high levels of customer satisfaction.

Testimonials highlight factors such as excellent service quality, helpful educational resources, and responsive customer support.

These positive reviews demonstrate that Mountain West IRA is a trusted provider of self-directed IRAs for those seeking alternative investment options for retirement planning.

Reasons to Choose Mountain West IRA

The impressive customer satisfaction ratings and educational resources offered by this self-directed IRA plan provider make it a top contender for those seeking alternative investment options for retirement planning.

One of the main reasons to choose Mountain West IRA is flexibility. Investors have the freedom to invest in assets they understand and prefer, allowing them greater control over their retirement savings.

Customers can choose from two fee structures, per-asset-based or value-based, depending on their individual needs.

Another reason to consider Mountain West IRA is its commitment to education. The company offers a variety of on-demand education options, including webinars, live workshops, and how-to guides.

These resources cover a range of topics such as real estate investing, due diligence when investing in alternative assets, and even investing for women.

This educational support is especially helpful for new investors who may not be familiar with self-directed IRAs or alternative investments.

Positive reviews and excellent customer support are also compelling reasons to choose Mountain West IRA.

The company has an A+ rating from the Better Business Bureau and numerous positive reviews from satisfied customers on various review websites.

In addition to offering personalized assistance in choosing the best self-directed IRA plan based on individual factors such as age and retirement goals, Mountain West IRA values confidentiality and security for each investor's information.

Investors seeking flexibility in investment options coupled with exceptional education resources and strong customer support would do well to consider Mountain West IRA for their retirement planning needs.

Pros and Cons

Investors should be aware of the advantages and disadvantages of choosing a self-directed IRA provider like Mountain West IRA.

One of the benefits of choosing Mountain West IRA is that they offer all traditional IRA plans and allow investors to open accounts online, making it easier for investors to manage their retirement savings.

Precious metals investments are available, giving investors more options for diversifying their portfolios.

There are also some drawbacks to consider when choosing Mountain West IRA as a self-directed IRA provider.

Cryptocurrency isn't an option for investment, which may be a disadvantage for some investors who want to take advantage of this growing market.

Another drawback is that live customer service chat isn't available, which may make it difficult for clients who prefer real-time communication with customer support representatives.

While there are both positives and negatives associated with choosing Mountain West IRA as a self-directed IRA provider, the company's ability to offer traditional IRA plans and its accessibility through online account opening make it an attractive option for many investors.

Those who prioritize cryptocurrency investments or value immediate customer support may need to consider other providers that better meet their needs.

Conclusion

Mountain West IRA is a reputable independent provider of self-directed IRA and 401K plans that offer a range of retirement options to suit investors' needs.

With positive reviews from satisfied clients, Mountain West IRA provides on-demand education options in the form of webinars, live workshops, and how-to guides.

This company offers two fee structures: per-asset-based and value-based, allowing investors to choose their preferred payment method.

Investors can invest in assets they understand and prefer with Mountain West IRA's self-directed investment options. The company offers common IRA plans as well as business IRA plans for those with entrepreneurial aspirations.

Customer support at Mountain West IRA is top-notch, offering assistance through phone calls or email.

Mountain West IRA offers an excellent platform for investors looking to take control of their retirement funds.

Their investment options are vast, and customer support is highly responsive.

Some may find the fees too high compared to other providers in the market.

If you're looking for a reliable self-directed IRA provider that prioritizes education and understands your specific financial goals- then consider choosing Mountain West IRA!