Hub · Gold IRAs
Gold IRAs: what they are, and how they actually work.
A self-directed IRA holding IRS-approved physical precious metals. Same tax structure as a traditional IRA — different asset class, different custodian requirements.
What a Gold IRA actually is
A "gold IRA" is not a distinct tax vehicle. It's a self-directed IRA — either traditional or Roth — that holds IRS-approved physical precious metals in place of (or alongside) traditional securities. The tax treatment is identical to any other IRA. What changes is the custodian, the assets held, and the storage requirements.
How rollovers work
There are two ways to move existing retirement funds into a gold IRA: a direct trustee-to-trustee transfer, or an indirect rollover where funds are distributed to you first. The direct route avoids withholding, the 60-day clock, and the once-per-year limit — see our full article on the rollover mistake costing people thousands.
What metals qualify
The IRS specifies minimum fineness thresholds — .995 for gold, .999 for silver, .9995 for platinum and palladium — plus a list of approved bullion coins including the American Gold Eagle, Canadian Gold Maple Leaf, and Austrian Philharmonic. Numismatic or collectible coins are not eligible.
Custodian and storage requirements
IRA-owned metals must be held by an IRS-approved custodian at an approved depository. Home storage of IRA-owned bullion is not permitted, regardless of what any marketing page suggests. See our Physical Gold hub for depository options and segregated-vs-commingled storage tradeoffs.
Traditional IRA vs Roth Gold IRA
| Feature | Traditional Gold IRA | Roth Gold IRA |
|---|---|---|
| Contributions | Pre-tax (deductible if eligible) | After-tax |
| Growth | Tax-deferred | Tax-free |
| Qualified withdrawals | Taxed as income | Tax-free |
| Required minimum distributions | Yes, starting age 73 | None during account holder's life |
| Contribution age limit | None (with earned income) | None (with earned income) |
Where to go next
Free resource
Get the Free Precious Metals IRA Guide
A plain-English overview of rollover rules, custodian selection, and how physical gold fits into a retirement portfolio. Delivered to your inbox.