Bitcoin IRA Providers in the US (2026)
You can hold actual Bitcoin (not just an ETF) in a self-directed IRA. Unchained and Swan offer Bitcoin-only IRAs, with Unchained letting you hold keys in a multisig. iTrustCapital, Alto (acquired by Public in November 2025), Bitcoin IRA, Choice, and Coin IRA are multi-asset custodial platforms. Fidelity offers Bitcoin inside some employer 401(k) plans. Any brokerage IRA can also buy a spot Bitcoin ETF. Last verified September 2026. Listings are neutral and unranked; not financial advice.
IRAs & 401(k): 8 listings
- Unchained IRA — Bitcoin-only IRA where you hold two of three keys in a collaborative multisig. collaborative custody, Bitcoin-only. Pricing: Setup fee plus ~$250/yr; trading desk fees.
- Swan IRA — Bitcoin-only IRA with traditional and Roth options and recurring contributions. custodial, Bitcoin-only. Pricing: No monthly fee; ~0.99% per buy.
- iTrustCapital — Self-directed IRA for crypto and metals with 24/7 trading. custodial, multi-asset. Pricing: 1% per trade; no monthly fee.
- Alto (Public) — Alto CryptoIRA, acquired by Public in November 2025. custodial, multi-asset. Pricing: ~1% per trade. Changed: Acquired by Public Nov 2025.
- Bitcoin IRA — One of the earliest crypto IRA platforms; BitGo custody. custodial, multi-asset. Pricing: Setup and trading fees; compare carefully.
- Choice — Retirement platform with Bitcoin, stocks, and the option to hold keys via partners. custodial, multi-asset.
- Coin IRA — Crypto IRA with a phone-based onboarding process. custodial, multi-asset.
- Fidelity 401(k) Bitcoin — Digital Assets Account inside participating employer 401(k) plans. custodial, multi-asset. US availability: Only if your employer opts in.
Frequently asked questions
Can I hold real Bitcoin in an IRA?
Yes, through a self-directed IRA with a custodian that supports it. Unchained goes further and lets you hold keys in a multisig. A regular brokerage IRA can only hold Bitcoin ETFs.
Bitcoin IRA vs Bitcoin ETF in an IRA?
An ETF is simpler and cheaper for small balances (0.2–0.25% expense ratios), but you own shares, not coins. A Bitcoin IRA holds actual BTC, can support self-custody, and avoids ETF management fees at the cost of setup and trading fees.
Can I take my Bitcoin out of an IRA?
Distributions follow normal IRA rules: in-kind Bitcoin distributions are possible with some custodians, but before age 59½ they are taxed and penalized like any early withdrawal.
Links
Interactive directory: enable JavaScript or open trybitstack.com.