In the rapidly evolving world of financial investments, cryptocurrencies have emerged as a transformative asset class, attracting both seasoned investors and newcomers seeking to diversify their portfolios. Among the platforms facilitating this shift, iTrustCapital® stands out as America’s leading Crypto IRA platform, recognized for its innovative approach to integrating digital assets into retirement planning. By combining the tax advantages of Individual Retirement Accounts (IRAs) with the potential of cryptocurrencies and precious metals, iTrustCapital offers a unique solution for investors looking to secure their financial future. This article provides an in-depth exploration of iTrustCapital’s features, benefits, operational processes, security measures, and more, offering a comprehensive guide to its role in the cryptocurrency investment landscape.
Traditional IRAs have long been a cornerstone of retirement planning, offering tax-deferred or tax-free growth depending on the account type. However, the rise of cryptocurrencies like Bitcoin, Ethereum, and others has prompted a new type of retirement account: the Crypto IRA. A Crypto IRA is a self-directed IRA that allows investors to hold digital assets, such as cryptocurrencies, alongside traditional investments like stocks, bonds, and, in iTrustCapital’s case, physical gold and silver. iTrustCapital has revolutionized this space by providing a user-friendly, secure, and cost-effective platform that eliminates the inefficiencies of older IRA models, enabling investors to seamlessly incorporate alternative assets into their retirement portfolios.
The platform’s mission is to empower investors to participate in the growing digital asset economy while leveraging the tax advantages of IRAs. With a focus on transparency, low fees, and robust security, iTrustCapital has earned its reputation as the #1 Crypto IRA platform in America, as evidenced by its 2021 IMA Impact Awards for Innovator of the Year and Best Crypto Investment Platform. This article will explore the platform’s key features, including its login process, asset offerings, fee structure, security measures, and customer experience, providing a detailed understanding of why iTrustCapital is a preferred choice for crypto retirement investing.
The concept of a Crypto IRA emerged as cryptocurrencies gained mainstream acceptance, offering investors a way to diversify their retirement portfolios beyond traditional assets. Unlike standard IRAs, which are typically limited to stocks, bonds, and mutual funds, self-directed IRAs allow for alternative investments, including cryptocurrencies and precious metals. However, the complexity of managing these assets within IRS-compliant retirement accounts posed significant challenges until platforms like iTrustCapital simplified the process.
Founded in 2018 by Todd Southwick and Blake Skadron, iTrustCapital was established with a vision to make alternative asset investing accessible to everyday investors. Headquartered in Irvine, California, the company has grown rapidly, surpassing $5 billion in transaction volume by 2022, a 60% increase in just nine months. This growth reflects the increasing demand for crypto-based retirement accounts and iTrustCapital’s ability to meet this demand with a streamlined, user-centric platform.
iTrustCapital’s platform is designed to address the inefficiencies of traditional IRA models, such as high fees, complex processes, and limited investment options. By offering a digital-first approach, the platform enables investors to buy, sell, and hold cryptocurrencies and precious metals 24/7, with real-time transaction settlement and competitive pricing. The company’s commitment to transparency, regulatory compliance, and customer support has made it a trusted name in the industry, with over 150,000 accounts created and thousands of five-star reviews on platforms like Trustpilot.
Getting started with iTrustCapital is a straightforward process designed to be accessible to both novice and experienced investors. To open an account, users must follow these steps:
Visit the iTrustCapital Website or App: Access the official iTrustCapital website or download the mobile app from the App Store or Google Play. The platform’s clean and intuitive design makes navigation easy, with the signup section prominently displayed.
Enter Basic Information: Users provide their name, email address, phone number, and a secure password to create an account. After submitting this information, a confirmation email is sent to verify the account.
Select IRA Type: iTrustCapital offers three types of IRAs: Traditional, Roth, and Simplified Employee Pension (SEP). Each offers distinct tax advantages, which will be discussed later in this article. Users choose the account type that aligns with their financial goals.
Complete KYC Verification: As a regulated platform, iTrustCapital adheres to Know Your Customer (KYC) requirements. Users must provide identification documents to verify their identity, a process that typically takes one to three business days.
Fund the Account: Once the account is approved, users can fund their IRA through various methods, including cash contributions (via ACH, wire transfer, or check), rollovers from employer-sponsored plans (e.g., 401(k), 403(b)), or transfers from existing IRAs. The minimum initial contribution is $1,000, with subsequent contributions requiring at least $500.
Start Trading: After funding, users gain access to their personal dashboard, where they can buy, sell, and manage cryptocurrencies and precious metals 24/7.
The iTrustCapital login process is designed for simplicity and security, ensuring users can access their accounts quickly while maintaining robust protection. Here’s how to log in:
Navigate to the Login Page: Open the iTrustCapital website or mobile app and locate the login section.
Enter Credentials: Input the registered email address and password. The platform uses encryption protocols to safeguard login information.
Two-Factor Authentication (2FA): For enhanced security, iTrustCapital encourages users to enable 2FA, which requires a secondary verification step (e.g., a code sent to a mobile device) to access the account. This reduces the risk of unauthorized access, even if login credentials are compromised.
Access the Dashboard: Once logged in, users are directed to their personal dashboard, where they can view their portfolio, execute trades, and monitor market trends.
The login process is seamless across devices, allowing users to manage their investments from a desktop, tablet, or smartphone. The mobile app, in particular, has been praised for its sleek design and user-friendly interface, making it easy to trade on the go.
iTrustCapital distinguishes itself by offering a diverse range of alternative assets, including over 75 cryptocurrencies and physical gold and silver. This combination allows investors to diversify their retirement portfolios while taking advantage of the tax benefits associated with IRAs.
iTrustCapital supports a wide selection of cryptocurrencies, catering to investors interested in both major coins and smaller altcoins. Some of the available digital assets include:
Bitcoin (BTC): The leading cryptocurrency by market capitalization, known for its store-of-value properties.
Ethereum (ETH): A blockchain platform enabling smart contracts and decentralized applications.
Solana (SOL): A high-performance blockchain known for its scalability and low transaction costs.
XRP (XRP): A digital asset designed for fast and cost-effective cross-border payments.
Cardano (ADA): A blockchain platform focused on sustainability and scalability.
Dogecoin (DOGE): A meme-based cryptocurrency with a strong community following.
Polkadot (DOT): A protocol enabling interoperability between blockchains.
Chainlink (LINK): A decentralized oracle network connecting smart contracts to real-world data.
Pepe (PEPE), Sui (SUI), Uniswap (UNI), Aave (AAVE), and more.
The platform regularly updates its asset offerings to include emerging cryptocurrencies, ensuring investors have access to the latest opportunities in the digital asset market. Users can trade these assets 24/7, with transactions executed in real-time and settled within seconds.
In addition to cryptocurrencies, iTrustCapital allows investors to hold physical gold and silver in their IRAs. These assets are investment-grade and stored at the Royal Canadian Mint, with ownership tracked using blockchain technology through a partnership with Kitco Metals and Tradewind’s Vaultchain™ platform. This ensures transparency and security, as investors can verify their holdings digitally and even visit the storage facility in person if desired.
Gold: Priced at $75 over the spot price per ounce, gold offers a hedge against inflation and market volatility.
Silver: Priced at $3.75 over the spot price per ounce, silver provides an affordable option for diversification.
The inclusion of precious metals alongside cryptocurrencies makes iTrustCapital a versatile platform for investors seeking to balance high-growth digital assets with stable, tangible assets.
One of iTrustCapital’s standout features is its transparent and low-cost fee structure, which sets it apart from many competitors. The platform eliminates common fees associated with traditional IRAs, such as setup, monthly maintenance, or annual account fees, making it an attractive option for cost-conscious investors. Below is a breakdown of the fees:
Account Setup and Maintenance: $0 (no setup, monthly, or annual fees).
Cryptocurrency Transactions: 1% per transaction (buy or sell).
Gold Transactions: $75 over spot price per ounce.
Silver Transactions: $3.75 over spot price per ounce.
Minimum Initial Contribution: $1,000.
Minimum Additional Contributions: $500.
Conversions (e.g., Traditional to Roth IRA): $75 one-time fee.
Withdrawals and In-Kind Transfers: $0.
Compared to competitors like Bitcoin IRA (2% transaction fee, plus setup and monthly fees) or Coin IRA (1.25% buy fee, 1% sell fee), iTrustCapital’s 1% flat transaction fee for cryptocurrencies is highly competitive. The flat fees for precious metals are also cost-effective, particularly for larger transactions, as they avoid the percentage-based fees charged by many gold IRA providers (typically 4–8%).
The absence of recurring fees and the low minimum investment threshold ($1,000) make iTrustCapital accessible to a wide range of investors, from beginners to seasoned professionals. Additionally, the platform’s fee transparency ensures that users are never surprised by hidden costs, a common complaint with other IRA providers.
Security is a top priority for iTrustCapital, given the high value and volatility of cryptocurrencies and precious metals. The platform employs industry-leading measures to safeguard client assets, ensuring peace of mind for investors. Key security features include:
Institutional-Grade Custody: iTrustCapital partners with regulated custodians, such as Fortress Trust and Coinbase Custody, to securely store client assets. These custodians use cold storage for cryptocurrencies, keeping assets offline to protect against hacking and cyber threats.
Closed-Loop System: The platform’s closed-loop system ensures that client assets are never exposed to unauthorized access or third-party manipulation. iTrustCapital does not borrow, lend, or leverage client assets, nor do its custody providers.
Multi-Part Computations: Cryptographic techniques enhance the security of digital asset storage, making it nearly impossible for unauthorized parties to access funds.
Commercial Crime Insurance: iTrustCapital maintains insurance policies to protect against theft or loss, with coverage up to $360 million through its custody partners.
FDIC Insurance for Cash: USD funds held in iTrustCapital accounts are FDIC-insured, providing additional protection for uninvested cash.
Blockchain Tracking for Precious Metals: Physical gold and silver are stored at the Royal Canadian Mint and tracked using blockchain technology, ensuring transparency and verifiable ownership.
Regular Audits: The platform undergoes regular financial and security audits by third parties to maintain compliance with industry standards, such as SOC 2 Type II certification from the American Institute of Certified Public Accountants (AICPA).
Despite these robust measures, iTrustCapital is not without scrutiny. In 2022, a former employee filed a lawsuit alleging sexual harassment and wrongful termination, which remains pending. While this does not directly impact the platform’s security, it has contributed to its A- rating from the Better Business Bureau (BBB), slightly below the A+ ratings of some competitors like Bitcoin IRA. Nevertheless, iTrustCapital’s security protocols and partnerships with trusted custodians make it one of the most secure platforms for crypto IRA investing.
iTrustCapital’s Crypto IRAs offer the same tax advantages as traditional IRAs, making them an appealing option for long-term wealth building. The specific benefits depend on the type of IRA:
Traditional IRA: Contributions are made with pre-tax income, and investments grow tax-deferred. Taxes are paid upon withdrawal during retirement, potentially at a lower tax rate.
Roth IRA: Contributions are made with after-tax income, allowing for tax-free growth and withdrawals in retirement, provided certain conditions are met (e.g., age 59½ and a five-year holding period). Eligibility is subject to income limits (e.g., $146,000 for single filers, $230,000 for married couples filing jointly in 2025).
SEP IRA: Designed for self-employed individuals or small business owners, SEP IRAs offer tax-deferred growth similar to Traditional IRAs, with higher contribution limits.
These tax advantages allow investors to grow their cryptocurrency and precious metal investments without incurring capital gains taxes on each transaction, as would be the case in a non-IRA account. This can significantly enhance long-term returns, especially given the volatility and potential growth of digital assets.
iTrustCapital offers flexible funding options to accommodate different investor needs:
Cash Contributions: Investors can fund their accounts via ACH, wire transfer, or check. The process typically takes 3–5 business days for new accounts and 2–4 days for additional contributions. Checks have a mandatory three-day hold before funds are available.
Rollovers: Funds from employer-sponsored plans, such as 401(k), 403(b), TSP, or 457 plans, can be rolled over into an iTrustCapital IRA. Rollovers from previous employers are generally straightforward, while current employer plans may require additional steps.
In-Kind Transfers: iTrustCapital is one of the few platforms offering in-kind transfers for Crypto IRAs, allowing investors to transfer existing cryptocurrency holdings from another Crypto IRA provider without liquidating them. This process typically takes 1–2 weeks and requires signed forms and coordination with the current custodian.
IRA Transfers: Funds from an existing Traditional, Roth, or SEP IRA can be transferred to iTrustCapital, typically taking 1–2 weeks.
The platform’s processing team provides detailed funding instructions and support throughout the process, ensuring a smooth experience for users.
iTrustCapital offers advanced features to enhance the investing experience, including staking and conditional transactions.
Staking allows investors to earn passive rewards on certain cryptocurrencies, similar to dividends or interest. By locking up their assets in a blockchain network, users contribute to its security and operations, receiving rewards in return. iTrustCapital supports staking for select cryptocurrencies, though specific options may vary. The platform is working to improve staking visibility, particularly on its mobile app, to provide users with real-time access to their staking activity.
Introduced in 2022, conditional transactions allow users to set buy or sell orders at specific price points. For example, an investor could place an order to buy Dogecoin if its price reaches $1, specifying the amount to invest. This feature provides greater control and flexibility, enabling users to capitalize on market opportunities without constant monitoring.
iTrustCapital has earned high praise for its customer experience, with over 2,000 five-star reviews on Trustpilot and positive feedback on forums like Reddit. Customers frequently highlight the platform’s ease of use, responsive support team, and transparent fee structure. Key aspects of the customer experience include:
Onboarding: The account setup process is intuitive, with clear instructions and support available via live chat, phone (562-600-8437), or email. Most users report completing setup in minutes, with account approval taking 1–3 days.
User Interface: The web and mobile platforms are designed for simplicity, with a personal dashboard that provides access to trading, portfolio management, and price tracking. The mobile app is particularly praised for its sleek design and functionality.
Customer Support: iTrustCapital’s client experience team is available to assist with onboarding, funding, and trading inquiries. While some users have noted challenges in scheduling phone support, the platform’s FAQ section and online resources are comprehensive.
Educational Resources: iTrustCapital offers a knowledge center with articles, videos, and market updates to help investors make informed decisions. While not as robust as some external research platforms, these resources are valuable for beginners.
Despite its strong reputation, some users have reported minor issues, such as initial glitches during KYC setup or limited customer service availability. However, the platform’s overall responsiveness and commitment to addressing user concerns have mitigated these drawbacks.
iTrustCapital stands out in the Crypto IRA market, but it’s worth comparing it to other leading providers to understand its strengths and limitations.
Asset Selection: iTrustCapital offers over 75 cryptocurrencies, compared to Bitcoin IRA’s 75+. Both platforms support gold, but iTrustCapital also includes silver.
Fees: iTrustCapital’s 1% transaction fee is lower than Bitcoin IRA’s 2%, and it has no setup or monthly fees, unlike Bitcoin IRA.
Security: Both platforms use cold storage and institutional-grade custody, but Bitcoin IRA offers $250 million in insurance compared to iTrustCapital’s $360 million.
Reputation: Bitcoin IRA has an A+ BBB rating, while iTrustCapital has an A- due to the pending lawsuit.
Asset Selection: Coin IRA supports fewer cryptocurrencies than iTrustCapital and offers gold but not silver.
Fees: Coin IRA charges 1.25% for buy transactions and 1% for sell transactions, compared to iTrustCapital’s flat 1% fee.
Accessibility: Both platforms have a $1,000 minimum, but iTrustCapital’s lack of recurring fees makes it more cost-effective.
Asset Selection: Alto IRA offers over 175 cryptocurrencies, significantly more than iTrustCapital’s 75+. However, iTrustCapital includes precious metals, while Alto focuses primarily on digital assets.
Fees: Both platforms charge a 1% transaction fee and no maintenance fees, but Alto may have additional costs for certain investments.
Research Tools: Alto’s educational offerings are less robust than iTrustCapital’s, lacking a comprehensive knowledge center.
Asset Selection: American Hartford Gold focuses on precious metals, offering a wider variety of coins and bars but no cryptocurrencies. iTrustCapital’s dual offering of crypto and metals provides greater diversification.
Fees: American Hartford Gold has higher transaction fees (4–8%) and a $10,000 minimum, compared to iTrustCapital’s $1,000 minimum and lower fees.
Account Types: American Hartford Gold offers more IRA types, while iTrustCapital is limited to Traditional, Roth, and SEP IRAs.
iTrustCapital’s combination of low fees, diverse assets, and user-friendly interface makes it a top choice for investors seeking a balanced Crypto IRA platform. However, those prioritizing a broader cryptocurrency selection may prefer Alto IRA, while precious metals enthusiasts might consider American Hartford Gold.
Low Fees: 1% transaction fee for cryptocurrencies, no setup or maintenance fees, and competitive precious metals pricing.
Diverse Assets: Over 75 cryptocurrencies and physical gold and silver, offering robust diversification.
Tax Advantages: Supports Traditional, Roth, and SEP IRAs with tax-deferred or tax-free growth.
User-Friendly: Intuitive web and mobile platforms with 24/7 trading and real-time settlement.
Security: Institutional-grade custody, cold storage, and $360 million in insurance.
In-Kind Transfers: Allows seamless transfers of crypto from other IRA providers without liquidation.
Customer Support: Responsive team with positive reviews for onboarding and assistance.
Limited Cryptocurrency Selection: Offers fewer coins than some competitors like Alto IRA (175+) or major exchanges like Coinbase.
Customer Service Availability: Scheduling phone support can be challenging, though online resources are robust.
Geographic Restrictions: Available only to U.S. investors (excluding New York and Hawaii).
No Financial Advice: iTrustCapital does not provide personalized investment advice, requiring users to conduct their own research.
Pending Lawsuit: The 2022 lawsuit may raise concerns for some investors, despite no direct impact on operations.
Investing in cryptocurrencies and precious metals carries inherent risks, and iTrustCapital is upfront about these challenges. Cryptocurrencies are highly volatile, with prices subject to significant fluctuations. For example, Bitcoin reached an all-time high above $123,000 on July 14, 2025, but past performance is not indicative of future results. Investors should have a high risk tolerance and a diversified portfolio before allocating significant funds to crypto IRAs.
Precious metals, while more stable, are also subject to market risks, including changes in spot prices and economic conditions. iTrustCapital advises investors to consult with qualified legal, investment, or tax professionals to assess their risk tolerance and understand the tax implications of their IRA type.
Additionally, iTrustCapital is not an exchange, custodian, or investment advisor, meaning it relies on third-party partners for custody and liquidity. While these partners are regulated and reputable, investors should be aware that they do not have a choice of custody provider. The platform’s compliance with IRS regulations ensures that all transactions are reported accurately, but investors must conduct their own due diligence to ensure alignment with their financial goals.
iTrustCapital has solidified its position as the #1 Crypto IRA platform in America by offering a seamless, low-cost, and secure way to invest in cryptocurrencies and precious metals within tax-advantaged retirement accounts. Its user-friendly interface, transparent fee structure, and robust security measures make it an ideal choice for investors seeking to diversify their portfolios with alternative assets. With over 75 cryptocurrencies, physical gold and silver, and flexible funding options, iTrustCapital caters to both novice and experienced investors looking to capitalize on the growing digital asset market.
While the platform has some limitations, such as a smaller cryptocurrency selection compared to major exchanges and occasional customer service challenges, its overall value proposition is unmatched in the Crypto IRA space. The ability to trade 24/7, leverage tax advantages, and access institutional-grade custody sets iTrustCapital apart from competitors like Bitcoin IRA, Coin IRA, and Alto IRA. For investors who understand the risks and are eager to incorporate cryptocurrencies and precious metals into their retirement strategy, iTrustCapital offers a reliable and innovative solution.
As the financial landscape continues to evolve, platforms like iTrustCapital are paving the way for a new era of retirement investing. By bridging the gap between traditional IRAs and the dynamic world of digital assets, iTrustCapital empowers investors to take control of their financial future with confidence, transparency, and integrity.