What is a signing request?

Understanding Signing Requests with American Estate & Trust (AET)

A signing request is a formal submission to American Estate & Trust (AET) requesting the execution of documents related to assets held within a Self-Directed IRA. Since AET, as the custodian, holds legal title to the assets within an IRA, certain documents require AET’s signature to facilitate transactions while ensuring compliance with IRS regulations.

When Is a Signing Request Needed?

Clients typically submit signing requests when they need AET to sign documents on behalf of their IRA for asset-related transactions. Some of the most common scenarios include:

• Selling Real Estate Owned by the IRA: Documents such as the real estate purchase contract, settlement statement, and warranty deed require AET’s execution to complete the sale.

• Private Placements and Investments: Subscription agreements and investment contracts often require AET’s approval and signature.

• Transfers and Assignments: Changing ownership or reassigning investment interests may require AET’s signature to reflect the IRA’s participation.

• Legal and Compliance Documents: Agreements related to business entities, indemnification forms, or other asset-related compliance documents may need AET’s execution.

Important Considerations for Signing Requests

To ensure smooth processing, clients should be aware of the following key points when submitting a signing request:

• Proper Documentation: The required documents must be completed in full and signed by all necessary parties before submission.

• Physical Signatures Only: AET does not accept digital or electronic signatures on signing request documents.

• Title and Signature Formatting: Documents should include appropriate signature lines formatted as follows:

  • [Account Holder's Name] (as Account Holder of the IRA)

  • American Estate & Trust, FBO [Account Holder's Name] IRA

  • Signature Lines labeled with “By” and “Its” for AET’s execution

• Processing Time: AET reviews signing requests within 3-5 business days from the date of submission. If revisions are needed, the process restarts, and the review period is extended.

• No Expedited Processing: AET does not offer expedited signing services, so clients should plan accordingly.

Real Estate Transactions and Signing Requests

One of the most common signing requests involves the sale of real estate held within an IRA. To facilitate these transactions, AET requires specific documents, including:

• Executed Sales Agreement – Outlining the terms of the property sale.

• Settlement Statement – Detailing the financial breakdown of the transaction.

• Deeds and Affidavits – Including Owner’s Affidavit, Seller’s Affidavit, and No Liens Affidavit, which must be signed, dated, and notarized by the client.

• Wire Instructions – AET’s wire instructions must be included in the seller disbursement sheet.

• Company Resolution – AET will return this document with the closing package for the title company.

How AET Handles Signing Requests

Once a signing request is received, AET reviews the submitted documents to ensure compliance with IRA regulations and custodial requirements. If any corrections are needed, AET will notify the client, and the process will restart with the required revisions.

For further details on how to submit a signing request, please refer to our separate guide on How do I submit a Signing Request.