Most retirement accounts hold stocks, bonds, and mutual funds — assets whose value is tied to markets and to the purchasing power of the dollar. A Gold IRA works under the same tax rules, but the account holds tangible bullion coins and bars stored in an insured depository on your behalf.
Why investors add metals
- Inflation hedge. Gold has historically held purchasing power over long periods when currencies weakened.
- Diversification. Metals frequently move differently from equities, softening portfolio swings.
- No counterparty risk. Physical metal is not anyone's promise to pay.
Tax treatment
A Traditional Gold IRA grows tax-deferred; you pay ordinary income tax on distributions in retirement. A Roth Gold IRA is funded with after-tax dollars and qualified distributions come out tax-free. Because a direct rollover moves funds between custodians without passing through your hands, it triggers no tax and no 10% early-withdrawal penalty.
The Gold Hotline does not provide tax, legal, or investment advice. Confirm your specific situation with your CPA or financial advisor.
Accounts that can be rolled over
Traditional IRA, Roth IRA, SEP and SIMPLE IRA, 401(k), Roth 401(k), 403(b), 457(b), and the Thrift Savings Plan are commonly eligible — most often after leaving the employer who sponsored the plan.
Ready for the practical part? See how to set up a Gold IRA →