Gold IRA guide
What Is a Gold IRA?
A “Gold IRA” is an industry term for a self-directed IRA that owns qualifying physical gold, and potentially other permitted precious metals, through the IRA’s trustee or custodian.
How the structure works
- An eligible IRA is established or selected with a trustee/custodian that supports the investment.
- The account is funded through a permitted contribution, transfer or rollover.
- The IRA purchases qualifying metals.
- The metals remain subject to IRA custody and storage requirements.
The IRS generally treats metals and coins as collectibles, but federal law provides exceptions for specified coins and certain bullion. Publication 590-B cautions that qualifying coins must be in the possession of the IRA custodian or trustee.
Risk: Gold can decline in value. Physical-metal IRAs can also have ongoing custody and storage costs.
Continue with how a Gold IRA works, fees and rules.