TL;DR - Quick Answer
A self-directed IRA allows you to hold physical gold, silver, and other alternative assets in your retirement account with the same tax advantages as traditional IRAs, but you control the investment decisions instead of a fund manager. The process involves working with an IRS-approved custodian who handles paperwork while you direct which metals to purchase and where to store them in an approved depository. Schedule a free consultation to learn if a self-directed IRA fits your retirement strategy and current financial situation.
What Is a Self-Directed IRA?
A Self-Directed IRA (SDIRA) is a retirement account that allows investments beyond stocks, bonds, and mutual funds. You can hold physical gold, silver, real estate, and other alternative assets.
You get the same tax advantages as a traditional or Roth IRA. The difference: you make the investment decisions, not a fund manager.
Most financial advisors don't discuss this option because they can't charge management fees on assets they don't control.
The Four Parties Involved
- 1. You (Account Holder):
You direct all investment decisions. The custodian executes your instructions.
- 2. Custodian:
IRS-approved administrator. Handles paperwork, tax reporting, and compliance.
- 3. Dealer (Us):
Sources the metal, locks your price, arranges delivery to the depository.
- 4. Depository:
IRS-approved vault. Stores your metal separately from other clients' holdings.
Check Your Eligibility
Not everyone qualifies for a Gold IRA rollover. Take this 30-second quiz to see if you can move your funds tax-free.
Check Your Gold IRA Eligibility
Find out if you qualify to move your existing retirement savings into physical gold and silver tax-free.
IRA-Eligible Precious Metals
The IRS sets strict purity requirements. Only metals meeting these standards can be held in a retirement account.
Gold
.995+ purity
99.5% pure minimum
Silver
.999+ purity
99.9% pure minimum
Platinum
.9995+ purity
99.95% pure minimum
Palladium
.9995+ purity
99.95% pure minimum
Why Consider a Self-Directed IRA?
Diversification Beyond Wall Street
Traditional IRAs limit you to stocks, bonds, and funds. A SDIRA lets you hold assets that don't move in lockstep with the market.
Physical Ownership
You own specific, identifiable metal—not shares in a fund. No "paper gold."
Control Over Your Retirement
You decide what to buy, when to buy, and when to sell. No fund manager making decisions for you.
Same Tax Benefits
Tax-deferred growth (Traditional) or tax-free growth (Roth). The tax treatment is identical to conventional IRAs.
Questions About Self-Directed IRAs?
We'll explain how it works, what it costs, and whether it makes sense for your situation.