Gold IRA: hold physical gold in your retirement account
A gold IRA is a self-directed IRA that holds IRS-approved physical bullion instead of stocks and funds. Done right, it adds a hard-asset hedge to a retirement portfolio — but fees and company quality vary enormously.
How a gold IRA works
You open a self-directed IRA with a custodian that allows precious metals, fund it (a rollover from a 401(k) or existing IRA is common), buy IRS-approved bullion through a dealer, and the metal is held in an approved depository in your account's name. You never take personal possession while it stays in the IRA.
What to compare between companies
| Factor | Why it matters |
|---|---|
| Setup & annual fees | Flat vs scaled fees compound over decades — the single biggest cost difference. |
| Spread over spot | The markup on coins/bars you buy and the buy-back price you're offered later. |
| Storage | Segregated vs commingled, and which depository (Delaware, Brink's, etc.). |
| Buy-back guarantee | Whether they commit to repurchasing your metal, and at what terms. |
| Approved metals | Only certain coins/bars meet IRS fineness rules (gold .995+, e.g. American Eagle, Buffalo). |
Get matched with vetted gold IRA custodians
We're building a screened comparison of gold IRA providers by fee structure and buy-back terms. In the meantime, request kits from two or three and compare their fee schedules side by side before committing.
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Frequently asked questions
Can I store gold IRA metal at home?
No. IRS rules require IRA-owned metals to be held by an approved custodian in an approved depository. 'Home storage IRA' schemes risk disqualifying the account and triggering taxes and penalties.
What gold is IRS-approved for an IRA?
Gold must be at least 99.5% pure. Common eligible products include American Gold Eagle, Gold Buffalo, and certain bars from approved refiners. Collectible and numismatic coins generally don't qualify.
Can I roll over my 401(k) into a gold IRA?
Often yes — a direct rollover from an eligible 401(k) or IRA into a self-directed gold IRA is typically tax-free when done custodian-to-custodian. Confirm eligibility with your plan and a tax professional.