A physical gold ira is a unique type of individual retirement account that allows you to invest in precious metals and other alternative assets not found in conventional Traditional or Roth IRAs. However, a gold IRA can be complicated and it’s important to do your homework before investing your life savings into this alternative asset. You’ll want to learn about the pros and cons of a gold IRA, as well as carefully vet any companies, custodians, or storage facilities you work with. Source

If you choose to open a gold ira, you’ll need to select which approved precious metals you wish to include in your portfolio and direct your custodian to purchase those metals on your behalf. You’ll also need to find a storage facility that can safely store the precious metals for you, as it’s against IRS rules to stash your own bullion in your home safe or closet.

Understanding the Tax Advantages of a Physical Gold IRA

It’s also important to note that physical gold ira investments are subject to the same distribution timing regulations as other assets in your IRA. This means that you’ll have to hold onto your investment for a number of years before you can access any of the money you’ve put into it. Additionally, unlike stocks that pay out dividends to shareholders on a regular basis, precious metals and gold IRA investments do not generate any passive income. This can make them a more hands-on form of investing than other types of retirement accounts.