Gold IRA Rules

Key IRS rules on eligible metals, custody, distributions, rollovers and prohibited transactions.

Key IRS rules on eligible metals, custody, distributions, rollovers and prohibited transactions. This guide is designed to help you identify the rules, costs, and decision points that matter before you contact a dealer or move retirement assets.

Collectibles are the starting rule

Federal IRA rules generally treat metals and coins as collectibles. The tax code provides exceptions for specified coins and qualifying bullion. Buying a nonqualifying collectible with IRA funds can be treated as a distribution. IRS Publication 590-B.

Custody is not optional

The IRS states that qualifying bullion must be in the physical possession of a bank or IRS-approved nonbank trustee. That makes custody structure a core compliance issue rather than just a storage preference.

Rollover rules still apply

Gold does not create a special rollover exception. If money is moving between retirement arrangements, the normal rules for direct rollovers, trustee-to-trustee transfers and 60-day rollovers still apply. IRS rollover guidance.

Prohibited transactions can be serious

Self-dealing and transactions with disqualified persons can create adverse tax consequences. Avoid structures that rely on personal use or personal possession of IRA assets without qualified professional review.