Frequently Asked Questions
Answers to common questions about Gold IRAs, rollovers, fees, IRS rules, and how our free matching service works.
What is a Gold IRA?
A Gold IRA is a self-directed individual retirement account that holds physical precious metals, such as gold coins or bars, instead of only stocks, bonds, and funds. The account follows the same basic tax rules as a traditional or Roth IRA, but the metals must meet IRS purity standards and be held by an approved custodian in an approved depository. Like any investment, precious metals prices fluctuate and can lose value.
Is GoldIRAFinder free to use?
Yes. Our matching service is completely free for consumers, and there is never an obligation to open an account or buy anything. We are paid by the Gold IRA companies in our network, not by you.
Are you a gold dealer or investment advisor?
No. We do not sell precious metals, hold or manage retirement accounts, or provide investment, tax, or legal advice. We are a referral service that connects you with independent Gold IRA companies. For advice about your personal situation, please consult a qualified financial, tax, or legal professional.
How does the matching work and who will contact me?
You fill out a short form with your name, phone number, zip code, and email. We then match your request with one or more independent Gold IRA companies from our network, and those companies or parties acting on their behalf may contact you by phone, text, or email with information about their services. You choose whether to work with any of them, and you can stop contact at any time.
Can I roll over my 401(k) or IRA into a Gold IRA?
In many cases, yes. Funds from a 401(k), traditional IRA, Roth IRA, and certain other retirement accounts can often be rolled over or transferred into a self-directed precious metals IRA. A direct custodian-to-custodian transfer is usually the simplest way to avoid taxes and penalties, but the rules depend on your account type and situation. Talk with the custodian handling the transfer and a qualified tax professional before moving any funds.
What are typical Gold IRA fees?
Typical ranges are a one-time setup fee of $50 to $250, an annual custodian fee of $75 to $300, and annual storage fees of $100 to $300. Dealers may also charge a markup on the metals themselves. These are typical ranges only, so verify the full fee schedule with each company before opening an account.
What metals are allowed in a Gold IRA?
The IRS sets minimum purity standards for metals held in an IRA: gold must be at least .995 fine, silver at least .999, and platinum and palladium at least .9995. Certain government-issued coins, such as the American Gold Eagle, are also permitted. Collectibles and metals that do not meet these standards are not allowed. The custodian you work with can confirm whether a specific product qualifies.
Can I store the gold at home?
No. IRS rules require that metals held in an IRA be stored with an approved custodian at an IRS-approved depository. Taking personal possession of the metals, including so-called home storage arrangements, is generally treated as a taxable distribution and may trigger penalties. If you want metals you can keep at home, those purchases must be made outside of an IRA.
How do you make money?
We may receive compensation from the Gold IRA companies in our network when we connect them with people who request information. This is how we keep the service free for consumers, and it may influence which companies we match you with. It does not change what you pay, and we do not recommend specific investments.
How do I stop receiving calls or revoke consent?
You can revoke your consent to be contacted at any time by visiting our Revoke Consent page. You can also ask any company that contacts you to place you on its do-not-call list. Revoking consent stops future marketing contact based on your form submission. Revoke Consent page
Still Have Questions?
Get matched with independent Gold IRA companies who can answer your questions and send you information. Our service is free, with no obligation.