Gold IRA Custodian Guide
What a self-directed IRA custodian does, what to compare, and where the custodian fits in the transaction.
What the custodian does
The custodian or trustee administers the IRA, handles account records and tax reporting, and executes permitted transactions for the account. Precious-metals dealers and IRA custodians are not necessarily the same company.
Questions to ask
Ask which asset types are accepted, which depositories are supported, the complete fee schedule, service turnaround times, distribution procedures, and how cash balances are handled.
Dealer vs custodian
A dealer may help coordinate the process, but the dealer's marketing relationship should not substitute for reading the custodian's own agreements and fee disclosures.
Keep roles clear
When comparing a Gold IRA offer, identify the dealer, IRA custodian and depository separately. That makes fees and responsibilities easier to understand.
Before you act
- Verify the source account or IRA transaction is eligible.
- Request the current written fee schedule and transaction quote.
- Identify the dealer, IRA custodian and depository separately.
- Confirm product eligibility and distribution procedures.
- Consider qualified tax, legal or financial advice for your circumstances.