Gold IRA basics
A conservative overview of IRA rules relevant to precious metals, with primary-source references for tax-sensitive details.
A “Gold IRA” is commonly used to describe a self-directed individual retirement account that can hold qualifying physical precious metals under applicable IRA rules. It is not a separate promise of tax benefits or investment performance.
The moving parts
- Account: the IRA's tax structure and contribution/distribution rules.
- Custodian: the institution administering the self-directed IRA.
- Dealer: the company from which eligible metals may be purchased.
- Depository: the storage arrangement for IRA-owned physical metals.
- Investor decision: whether the costs, risks and role of metals fit the broader plan.
What Gold IRA Authority does
We explain the process, compare providers and point readers toward primary sources. We do not provide individualized investment, tax or legal advice.
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Get Augusta's Free Gold IRA GuideAffiliate link. Gold IRA Authority may receive compensation from qualifying referrals. No purchase is required to use our educational content.Continue your research
- Gold IRA: Complete Guide
- How Does a Gold IRA Work?
- Gold IRA Pros and Cons
- Gold IRA Tax Rules: What to Research
Primary sources
- Augusta Precious Metals official website — use for current company-specific claims.
- IRS: Rollovers of retirement plan and IRA distributions — primary rollover guidance.
- IRS Publication 590-A — IRA contribution and rollover reference.