Precious Metals IRA Guide
An umbrella guide to self-directed IRAs holding eligible gold, silver, platinum or palladium.
The account structure comes first
A precious-metals IRA is generally a self-directed IRA that can hold certain qualifying metals. The tax wrapper and custody rules are separate from the choice of metal.
Eligibility is product-specific
The IRS collectible exception covers certain coins and bullion subject to statutory conditions. A metal being gold, silver, platinum or palladium does not make every product eligible.
Market characteristics differ
Gold, silver, platinum and palladium have different supply-and-demand drivers and price behavior. This site does not forecast returns or recommend an allocation.
Compare implementation costs
Storage, custodian and transaction costs can matter differently depending on metal format, account size and provider. Ask for current written pricing.
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.
Explore this section
- Silver IRA Guide
- Precious Metals IRA Rules
- IRA-Eligible Precious Metals: Coins & Bars
- Platinum IRA Guide
- Palladium IRA Guide
Continue your research
- Silver IRA Guide
- Precious Metals IRA Rules
- IRA-Eligible Precious Metals: Coins & Bars
- Best Gold IRA Companies: How to Compare Providers
- Noble Gold Investments Review
Primary sources
Provider claims and fees are attributed to the provider. Regulatory statements are sourced to the IRS.