A Gold IRA is a self-directed Individual Retirement Account that allows you to hold physical precious metals (gold, silver, platinum, palladium) instead of traditional stocks and bonds. It offers the same tax advantages as a regular IRA, but with the added security of tangible assets.

Yes. You can perform a direct rollover from a traditional IRA, 401k, 403b, or other qualified retirement account into a Gold IRA without penalties or taxes. The process is straightforward and handled by the custodian.

For 2024, you can contribute up to $7,000 per year ($8,000 if age 50 or older). These limits are set by the IRS and may change annually. Rollovers from existing retirement accounts are not subject to annual contribution limits.

Your precious metals are stored in an IRS-approved, segregated depository facility. These are highly secure vaults with insurance, regular audits, and strict security protocols. You do not take physical possession—the custodian maintains control for regulatory compliance.

Typical fees include account setup ($50-$100), annual custodian fees ($100-$300), and storage/insurance fees ($100-$250 annually). Precious metals are purchased at spot price plus a markup. Fees vary by provider, so it's important to compare.

You can begin taking distributions penalty-free at age 59½. If you withdraw before this age, you may face a 10% penalty plus income taxes. Required Minimum Distributions begin at age 73. Consult a tax professional for your specific situation.