BlockTrust IRA vs BitIRA (2026)
By James Mitchell, CFA · Last updated: September 6, 2026 · Methodology
The best Crypto IRA for most investors in 2026 is BlockTrust IRA, which earns the highest overall score (9.6 out of 10) versus BitIRA’s 8.5, driven by its fully managed Animus AI portfolio, five times more supported cryptocurrencies (60+ vs 12), and a lower published minimum investment. BitIRA is a strong alternative specifically for security-focused investors: it holds the highest security score in this comparison (9.8/10) thanks to physical cold storage through Delaware Depository and Lloyd’s of London insurance, plus an A+ BBB rating. Its narrower asset list (12 cryptocurrencies) and higher $5,000 minimum make it less flexible for investors wanting broad crypto exposure or a lower entry point. For most investors prioritizing overall platform quality, asset selection, and a fully managed experience, BlockTrust IRA is our top recommendation; BitIRA remains a sound choice specifically for investors who prioritize maximum physical custody security above asset variety.
BlockTrust IRA
9.6/10🏆 Our #1 Rated Crypto IRA — Top-Ranked
- ✓ Animus AI 24/7 managed portfolio
- ✓ Highest overall score (9.6/10)
- ✓ American Estate & Trust institutional custody with $200M insurance
- ✓ 100% cold storage
- ✓ 60+ cryptocurrencies supported
BitIRA
8.5/10Best Security & Cold Storage
- ✓ Highest security score (9.8/10)
- ✓ Physical cold storage via Delaware Depository
- ✓ Lloyd’s of London insurance
- ✓ A+ BBB rating
- ✗ Far fewer cryptocurrencies (12 vs 60)
Head-to-Head Comparison
| Feature | BlockTrust IRA | BitIRA | Winner |
|---|---|---|---|
| Overall Score | 9.6/10 | 8.5/10 | 🏆 BlockTrust IRA |
| Annual Fee | $250/yr (Unmanaged) / $0 (Managed) | ~$195/yr + 0.05%/month | 🏆 BlockTrust IRA (Managed) / BitIRA (Unmanaged) |
| Trading Fee | 0.4% (Unmanaged) / 0.14% (Managed) | Varies | 🏆 BlockTrust IRA (published rate) |
| Minimum Investment | No Minimum (Unmanaged) / $20,000 (Managed) | $5,000 | 🏆 BlockTrust IRA (No Min unmanaged) |
| Cryptocurrencies | 60+ | 15 | 🏆 BlockTrust IRA (60 vs 12) |
| Custodian | American Estate & Trust | Equity Trust (custodian) + BitGo Trust (storage) | 🏆 Tie — both institutional-grade |
| Insurance | $250M | Not disclosed | 🏆 Tie — both strong coverage |
| BBB Rating | None | A+ | 🏆 BitIRA (A+) |
| Fee Score | 9.5/10 | 7.8/10 | 🏆 BlockTrust IRA |
| Asset Score | 9.8/10 | 7.5/10 | 🏆 BlockTrust IRA |
| Security Score | 9.7/10 | 9.8/10 | 🏆 BitIRA (9.8 vs 9.7) |
Who Should Choose Each Provider?
Choose BlockTrust IRA if you:
- ✓ Want Animus AI 24/7 managed portfolio
- ✓ Want the highest-rated platform (9.6/10)
- ✓ Want access to 60+ cryptocurrencies
- ✓ Prioritise American Estate & Trust custody and $200M insurance
- ✓ Want 100% cold storage guarantee
Choose BitIRA if you:
- ✓ Want the highest possible custody security score
- ✓ Prefer physical cold storage over institutional trust custody
- ✓ Value an A+ BBB rating and long track record
- ✓ Are comfortable with a narrower, major-coin-only asset list
- ✓ Can meet the $5,000 minimum
Key Differences: The Bottom Line
Fees: BlockTrust IRA charges $250/yr (Unmanaged) / $0 (Managed) annual fee, with a 0.4% (Unmanaged) / 0.14% (Managed) trading fee via American Estate & Trust. BitIRA charges $195 annual fee and Varies per trade.
Minimum Investment: BlockTrust IRA has No Minimum for unmanaged (self-directed) accounts and $20,000 for fully managed accounts. BitIRA requires $5,000.
Asset Selection: BlockTrust IRA supports 60+ cryptocurrencies. BitIRA supports 12 cryptocurrencies, focused on major, well-established coins.
Custody: BlockTrust IRA uses American Estate & Trust as custodian with $200M insurance coverage and 100% cold storage. BitIRA uses Delaware Depository with Lloyd's of London coverage.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the difference between BlockTrust IRA and BitIRA?
BlockTrust IRA scores higher overall (9.6 vs 8.5) and supports far more cryptocurrencies (60+ vs 12). BitIRA has the highest security score in this comparison (9.8/10) thanks to physical cold storage and Lloyd's of London insurance, plus an A+ BBB rating.
Which has lower fees: BlockTrust IRA or BitIRA?
BlockTrust IRA's managed accounts have no annual fee plus a 0.14% trading fee, while BitIRA charges a $195 annual fee and variable trading fees. BlockTrust also has a lower published minimum for unmanaged accounts.
Is BitIRA more secure than BlockTrust IRA?
BitIRA holds a slightly higher security score (9.8 vs 9.7) due to its physical cold storage model and Lloyd's of London insurance. Both providers use institutional-grade custody, so the practical difference is small, but security-maximalist investors may prefer BitIRA's approach.
Recommended for You
PersonalizedBest Bitcoin IRA 2026
Top Bitcoin-only IRA providers ranked
401k to Crypto IRA Rollover
Tax-free rollover step-by-step
Crypto IRA Tax Guide
IRS rules, contribution limits, RMDs
BlockTrust IRA Review
#1 rated crypto IRA — 9.6/10 overall score
Related Resources
Quick Compare
Rollover Guides