Gold IRA Rules and Regulations — Plain Overview
The IRS does not hand out gold stickers to dealers. It sets rules about which metals qualify as non-collectible bullion inside IRAs, how assets must be held, and how contributions and distributions work.
Eligible metals (overview)
- Gold: generally 0.995+ fineness bars; certain coins including American Eagles
- Silver: typically 0.999+
- Platinum / palladium: typically 0.9995+
Jewelry and most numismatics fail. When unsure, ask the custodian in writing before purchase.
Storage rule beginners must memorize
IRA metals stay with a trustee/custodian arrangement at an approved depository. Personal possession of IRA bullion is a red-flag zone that can look like a distribution.
Prohibited transactions (plain English)
You cannot treat the IRA like a personal vault, borrow against it casually, or buy/sell with yourself in ways the tax code forbids. Violations can unwind tax benefits. Read with a tax professional if a pitch sounds clever.
Contributions, RMDs, distributions
Contribution limits follow IRA rules (Publication 590-A). Traditional IRAs generally require RMDs at the ages set by current law; Roth owners often differ. Distributions may be cash or, if allowed, in-kind metal at fair market value.
Tax rules detail · How to open · Clean funding paths
IRA Gold — not legal advice. Confirm with IRS publications and a professional.