IRA to Gold IRA Transfer or Rollover

Moving money from one IRA to a self-directed precious-metals IRA may be handled as a trustee-to-trustee transfer or, in some cases, an IRA-to-IRA rollover.

Why the distinction matters

The IRS says a trustee-to-trustee transfer is not treated as a rollover for the one-rollover-per-year limit. A 60-day IRA-to-IRA rollover can be subject to that limitation.

Practical approach

Ask the sending and receiving custodians how the transaction will be characterized and documented before funds move. Avoid taking personal possession of retirement money unless you fully understand the withholding, timing and tax consequences.