What a Custodian Actually Does
The IRS doesn't let you hold IRA assets in your sock drawer. Federal law requires a qualified custodian—a regulated financial institution that holds the account, files IRS paperwork, and ensures compliance.
They're not investment advisors. They don't tell you what to buy. They're administrators who execute your instructions and keep the IRS happy.
You pick the custodian. You direct the investments. They handle the paperwork.
Three Different Jobs
Custodian
Holds the IRA. Files Form 5498. Reports to IRS.
Dealer (Us)
Sources IRS-approved metal. Locks your price. Ships to depository.
Depository
Stores your metal. Armed security. Full insurance.
Three separate entities. Three layers of accountability. No single point of failure.
What to Evaluate in a Custodian
Annual fees typical range. Some charge per-transaction. Know the total cost.
Some process in 3-5 days. Others take 2-3 weeks. Time matters when prices move.
Can you reach a human? Do they answer questions? Check their response time.
Years in business. Assets under management. Regulatory history. Check reviews.
Custodians Are Not All Equal
Some radio/TV gold companies create their own "custodians" or use affiliated entities. This eliminates the independence that protects you. When the dealer and custodian are the same company, who's watching whom?
All custodians on this page are independent, regulated entities with no financial relationship to Liberty Gold Silver.
Custodians We've Worked With for Years
These aren't paid placements. These are custodians our clients have used successfully. They process efficiently, communicate clearly, and we've resolved issues with them when they arise.
Equity Trust Company
Full-service self-directed IRA custodian
- Industry pioneer since 1974
- Online account management
- Dedicated client support
- Multiple depository options
New Direction Trust Company
Alternative asset specialist
- Colorado-regulated trust company
- Fast processing times
- Competitive fee structure
- Precious metals expertise
GoldStar Trust Company
Precious metals focused custodian
- Metals-first approach
- Simple flat-fee structure
- Texas-regulated
- Streamlined rollover process
The Entrust Group
Education-focused custodian
- Extensive educational resources
- Multiple office locations
- 40+ years experience
- Wide asset selection
You are free to use any IRS-qualified custodian. These are simply the ones we have experience with.
How a Gold IRA Rollover Works
Not Sure Which Custodian Fits?
Different custodians work better for different situations. Fee structures vary. Processing times differ. We'll help you evaluate based on your specific needs.