How do I buy gold in an IRA?

Buying gold in an IRA requires five steps: choose a Gold IRA company and custodian, open a self-directed IRA (SDIRA), fund via direct rollover or contribution ($7,000 limit / $8,000 if 50+), select IRS-approved metals meeting 99.5% fineness, and have metals shipped to an IRS-approved depository.

What gold coins are IRA eligible?

IRA-eligible gold coins include American Gold Eagle (91.67%), American Gold Buffalo (99.99%), Canadian Gold Maple Leaf (99.99%), Austrian Gold Philharmonic (99.99%), and Australian Gold Kangaroo (99.99%). South African Krugerrands are NOT eligible.

What are Gold IRA fees?

Gold IRA fees include: setup ($50-$300), annual custodian ($75-$300/yr), segregated storage ($150-$300/yr) or commingled ($100-$150/yr), and seller markup over spot (1-5%). Total: $300-$700/year.

Can I store IRA gold at home?

No. Home storage is a prohibited transaction confirmed by the Tax Court in McNulty v. Commissioner (2017). It results in deemed distribution of the entire account plus taxes and 10% penalty.

Are Gold IRA rollovers taxable?

Direct rollovers (trustee-to-trustee) are not taxable. Indirect rollovers require redeposit within 60 days and are limited to one per 12 months across all IRAs.

What if I invested $1,000 in gold 10 years ago?

$1,000 invested in gold in April 2016 (at approximately $1,240/oz) would be worth approximately $2,580 by April 2026 (at ~$3,200/oz) — a 158% gain. The S&P 500 returned approximately 220% in the same period, but gold provided significant downside protection during 2022's equity drawdown.

How much is 1 oz of gold right now?

Gold spot price fluctuates daily. As of April 2026, gold trades near $3,200 per troy ounce. Your Gold IRA dealer will charge the spot price plus a bid-ask spread and dealer markup of 1–5% depending on the coin or bar type.

Why does Dave Ramsey say not to invest in gold?

Dave Ramsey argues gold underperforms stocks long-term and produces no income or dividends. This is a fair critique for 100% gold portfolios. However, most financial advisors recommend 5–10% gold allocation as an inflation hedge and portfolio stabilizer — not a growth engine. Gold's 158% return over 10 years trails the S&P 500's ~220% but significantly outperformed during 2022's -18% equity year.

How to Buy Gold in an IRA: 5-Step Process & IRS Rules (2026)

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About Augusta Precious Metals

Augusta Precious Metals has earned a reputation as the premier gold IRA company in America. Founded in 2012, they focus on education-first customer service and have maintained an impeccable track record with zero BBB complaints.

Ratings & Reputation

Platform	Rating	Reviews	Complaints
Better Business Bureau	A+	500+	0 complaints
Business Consumer Alliance	AAA	100+	None
TrustPilot	4.9/5	800+	5 (1-star)
Consumer Affairs	4.9/5	600+	3 (1-star)

Why Choose Augusta Precious Metals?

Education First Philosophy

Augusta believes informed investors make better decisions. Their free learning library and one-on-one web conferences help you understand the precious metals market.

Price Match Guarantee

Augusta offers a best-price guarantee, ensuring you get competitive rates on your precious metals purchases.

Lifetime Support

Unlike competitors, Augusta provides ongoing support throughout your investment journey, not just during the initial sale.

Pros & Cons

Pros

Industry-leading customer satisfaction ratings
Price match guarantee ensures competitive pricing
Extensive educational resources and video library
Transparent fee structure with no hidden costs
Lifetime support from dedicated specialists
Zero complaints filed with BCA
White-glove concierge service
Harvard-trained economist on staff

Cons

Higher minimum investment at $50,000
May not suit smaller retirement accounts

Getting Started with Augusta Precious Metals

Schedule a Consultation

Begin with a free educational web conference. Augusta's team explains everything about gold IRAs without any sales pressure.

Open Your Account

Augusta handles all paperwork and coordinates with custodians to establish your self-directed IRA.

Fund Your IRA

Roll over funds from your 401(k), TSP, or existing IRA. Augusta manages the entire transfer process.

Select & Secure Metals

Choose IRA-eligible precious metals with guidance from your dedicated specialist. All metals are stored in secure, insured depositories.

Ready to Get Started?

Take the first step toward securing your retirement with Augusta Precious Metals.

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What Customers Say

“The educational process was exactly what I needed. No pressure, just clear information to help me decide.”

— Robert M.

“Augusta's team went above and beyond. The lifetime support promise isn't just marketing - they really deliver.”

— Susan K.

“Best experience I've had with any financial company. Truly the gold standard in customer service.”

— James T.

Frequently Asked Questions

Augusta consistently ranks #1 due to their education-first approach, zero BBB complaints, price match guarantee, and exceptional customer service ratings.

Augusta requires a $50,000 minimum investment, which positions them for serious retirement investors seeking premium service.

Augusta has maintained zero complaints with the BBB and BCA, demonstrating their commitment to customer satisfaction.

Augusta's focus on education, transparent pricing, lifetime support, and zero complaint record sets them apart from competitors.

Is Augusta Precious Metals Right for Your Gold IRA?