The complete guide to protecting your retirement with gold.

A gold IRA is a self-directed individual retirement account that holds physical, IRS-approved precious metals instead of (or alongside) stocks and bonds. It works like any other IRA for tax purposes, but the assets are real bullion stored on your behalf in an approved depository. A custodian administers the account and a dealer sources the metals.

Most educators describe gold as a hedge — a portion of a portfolio meant to hold value when currencies weaken — rather than an all-in bet. Many investors allocate a single-digit to low-double-digit percentage. The right size depends on your age, timeline, and risk tolerance, so treat this guide as education and confirm specifics with a licensed professional.

Yes — when done correctly. A direct rollover (trustee-to-trustee transfer) of eligible 401(k), 403(b), TSP, or IRA funds into a self-directed gold IRA is not a taxable event. Trouble usually comes from indirect rollovers that miss the 60-day window. A reputable custodian and dealer will handle the paperwork to keep the move penalty-free.

Typical costs include a one-time setup fee, an annual custodian/administration fee, and an annual storage fee at the depository. The most important — and least visible — cost is the dealer's spread (the markup over the metal's spot price). Insist on transparent, spot-based pricing and ask for all fees in writing before you fund an account.

The IRS permits certain gold, silver, platinum, and palladium products that meet minimum purity standards (e.g., 99.5% for gold) and come from approved mints or refiners — such as American Gold Eagles and many bullion bars. Collectible or graded 'numismatic' coins are generally not eligible for an IRA.

Verify the dealer's BBB rating and complaint history, confirm they use an IRS-approved depository (e.g., Delaware Depository, Brinks, Loomis), insist on transparent pricing tied to the spot market, and avoid anyone pushing collectible coins for an IRA or warning that the economy will collapse 'tomorrow.' A clear, written buyback policy is a strong sign of good faith.