Retirement Income Planning
What Is a Self-Directed Brokerage Account?
A Self-Directed Brokerage Account (SDBA) allows retirement plan participants to go beyond the limited fund menu of a typical 401(k). It offers access to thousands of mutual funds, ETFs, and other professionally managed investments — all while maintaining the same tax-advantaged status as your employer’s plan.
At Vanator Financial Services, our fiduciary advisors help clients use SDBAs responsibly, building portfolios that align with both their risk tolerance and long-term objectives.
We integrate the SDBA option within your broader retirement tax and income plan, ensuring your expanded choices stay coordinated with your overall strategy.
Freedom Without the Guesswork
An SDBA provides greater flexibility but also requires discipline. We act as your partner in navigating that expanded universe of investment options — helping you choose quality, diversified holdings that complement your existing 401(k) core funds.
You can decide how much of your employer plan balance to allocate to the brokerage window, while we maintain ongoing oversight and rebalancing.
How It Works
01.
Set Up
Your employer plan enables the SDBA option (usually through a provider such as Charles Schwab, Fidelity, or TD Ameritrade).
02.
Fund Transfer
You allocate a portion of your 401(k) balance to the brokerage window.
03.
Investment Selection
Vanator helps you select diversified funds, ETFs, or models that fit your goals.
04.
Ongoing Management
We monitor performance, risk exposure, and tax-sensitive rebalancing.
05.
Integration
Your SDBA holdings are fully incorporated into your retirement income and tax plan.
Why Choose an SDBA?
Greater Investment Choice
Access thousands of funds and ETFs beyond your employer’s core lineup.
Professional Oversight
Maintain fiduciary guidance through Vanator’s advisory team.
Diversification Potential
Build custom strategies across asset classes and sectors.
Tax Efficiency
Keep tax deferral while improving flexibility.
Compliance & Fiduciary Support
While SDBAs expand investment freedom, they also require a prudent process. We coordinate directly with your plan provider to ensure compliance with ERISA standards and employer policies. Our team documents all recommendations and keeps your portfolio aligned with fiduciary best practices.
Learn More Resources
For details on how SDBAs integrate with employer plans, visit our Resources page to explore calculators, articles, and comparison tools.
FAQs About Self-Directed Brokerage Accounts
Can I move all my 401(k) assets into the SDBA?
Generally, only a portion (such as 50%) can be allocated to the brokerage window, depending on your employer plan rules.
Are there extra costs for an SDBA?
Some custodians charge small maintenance or transaction fees. We review those before implementation to ensure transparency.
What can I invest in through an SDBA?
Most offer access to mutual funds, ETFs, and individual securities — excluding certain alternatives or options trading.
Will I lose employer oversight or plan protection?
No. Your SDBA remains inside the qualified plan, retaining ERISA protection and tax deferral.
