---
title: How Should I Invest My IRA?
description: 'With a few exceptions, you can invest in just about anything: mutual funds, individual stocks and bonds, annuities and even certain real estate.'
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published: '2014-05-20T19:28:12.000Z'
modified: '2024-04-02T04:36:41.000Z'
section: Investing
tags:
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  - Investing
  - investing in IRA
  - IRA
  - IRA investment
  - IRAs
  - Retirement
  - retirement accounts
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canonical: https://money.com/collection-post/how-should-i-invest-my-ira-money/
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![How Should I Invest My IRA?](https://money.com/img/logo-social.png)

With a few exceptions, you can invest in just about anything: [mutual funds](https://money.com/collection-post/what-is-a-mutual-fund/), individual [stocks](https://money.com/collection-post/what-is-a-stock/) and [bonds](https://money.com/what-is-a-bond/), annuities and even certain real estate. The IRS does have a few restrictions for IRA funds, including lending money to yourself, using it as collateral for a loan and buying real estate for your personal use.

Similar to any retirement investment, it’s a good idea to [diversify your assets among stocks, bonds and cash](https://money.com/collection-post/stocks-bonds-mix/). Stocks can provide long-term growth potential, while bonds and cash offer some protection against market setbacks. For more on asset allocation, see "What's the best way to divide my retirement investments?"

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