Bitcoin, along with other digital currencies, continue to take the financial world by storm, we think it’s about time the financial services industry has a serious discussion around adding Bitcoin - and other cryptocurrencies - to the long list of investment options in the average 401(k) plan.
Background on Bitcoin
Over the past decade, Bitcoin has consistently been a hot topic in the financial services industry. Since it’s creation in 2009, Bitcoin has been known for its volatility, with prices soaring one day then plummeting the next. Despite this, it has established itself as a legitimate investment option, through its long-term growth and adaptation.
Is Bitcoin an investment option in retirement plans?
When planning for retirement, it’s important to take a birds-eye approach and consider all the options when developing an investment strategy. That said, incorporating cryptocurrencies like Bitcoin in a traditional retirement account hasn’t even been an option on the table until recently. Due to the complex nature of retirement plan design, most retirement firms haven’t had the financial, technological, and legal capabilities needed to present these types of options to their clients. However, with the development of the world’s first Bitcoin 401(k) plan, companies that work with Leading Retirement Solutions are now able to add digital assets like Bitcoin to their nontraditional investment options.
Due to IRS official guidance on the tax treatment of Bitcoin in 2014 as property, many already had access to Bitcoin IRAs, but few were offered a Bitcoin 401(k) plan. With the Leading Bitcoin 401(k), companies can offer employees the ability to invest traditional or Roth 401(k) dollars into Bitcoin. For those that do not know, a traditional 401(k) allows pre-tax dollar investments with deferrals on income taxes until withdrawal and a Roth 401(k) allows post-tax dollar investments with no tax obligations on capital gains for qualified withdrawals.
A 401(k) plan that is capable of incorporating nontraditional investments like Bitcoin expands your options. However, like any investment, it is prudent to examine your options and your risk tolerence to ensure that it fits you and your team members' goals.
How to get started
The retirement plan administration professionals at Leading Retirement Solutions are industry experts in nontraditional investment strategies. Like many other nontraditional investments, Bitcoin can be associated with significant legal risk if not implemented into a retirement plan correctly. To avoid facing potential legal repercussions, it’s extremely important to consult a qualified retirement plan administrator, before integrating digital assets like Bitcoin into your retirement plan. Companies like LRS ensure Department of Labor and IRS compliance. Once these accounts are created, your 401(k) Plan is ready to go and can be funded on your next pay period and with rollovers/transfers from old retirement accounts, including IRAs, 401(k), 403(b), pension plans, and more!
As we continue to navigate through the digital age, conversations regarding Bitcoin and other digital assets are bound to continue. Connect with us on Facebook, LinkedIn, and Twitter to keep up with new updates on the retirement industry and digital assets.
For more tips and information regarding retirement plans, contact us.
