Skip Navigation

Diversify Your Retirement by Investing in Precious Metals

In today’s uncertain economic climate, many people are diversifying and investing in precious metals for retirement. Precious metal investing is not only a hedge against inflation and market volatility, but also a tangible asset strategy that can offer long-term financial security. By utilizing a Self-Directed IRA or Solo 401(k), you can invest in precious metals and IRS-approved coins.

Open Account

Diversify Your Retirement by Investing in Precious Metals

In today’s uncertain economic climate, many people are diversifying and investing in precious metals for retirement. Precious metal investing is not only a hedge against inflation and market volatility, but also a tangible asset strategy that can offer long-term financial security. By utilizing a Self-Directed IRA or Solo 401(k), you can invest in precious metals and IRS-approved coins.

Open Account

As seen in:

Why Choose Us to Help You Invest in Precious Metals for Retirement?

Using IRA Financial to invest in precious metals offers several advantages, especially if you’re looking to diversify your retirement portfolio with physical assets like gold, silver, platinum, or palladium. Self-directing your retirement, whether you use a Self-Directed IRA, Checkbook IRA, or Solo 401(k) plan, can help you diversify your portfolio and hedge against inflation. Our team is well-versed in IRS rules regarding alternative assets, helping you avoid prohibited transactions and keep your account in good standing.

No Hidden Fees

No commissions or surprise charges.

Expert Support

Live chat available 8AM–6PM Central Time.

Flexible Investing

Manage assets or have us handle them.

2,400 Investors

Serving investors in all 50 states.

Industry Expertise

Led by Self-Directed IRA specialists.

Dedicated Focus

100% Self-Directed IRA solutions.

How to Open an Investment Account to Hold Precious Metals

Once you’ve selected the type of Self-Directed retirement account that’s right for you, the next step is to fund it and prepare to make your investment. Before purchasing, it’s important to thoroughly research reputable dealers to ensure you’re getting quality precious metals and/or coins at fair prices from a trusted source (IRA Financial has several precious metals companies it works with).

Open an account

Step 1

Setting up an investment retirement account is easy. Start by choosing your plan and opening a new account with us here.

Get your account number

Step 2

Once approved, you’ll receive your account number to move forward.

Fund your account

Step 3

Transfer, roll over, or contribute funds directly to your account to start investing.

Self-Directed Retirement Accounts for Individuals

Self-Directed IRA

Learn More

A custodian controlled Self-Directed IRA allows one to invest in alternative investments, including real estate. You choose the investments, and we’ll invest on your behalf. Ideal for investors who are less hands-on.

$0

setup fee

$495

annually

Checkbook IRA

Learn More

A Checkbook IRA gives you total control with the use of an LLC. Perfect for the investor that performs a lot of transactions, such as with a rental property.

$999

setup fee

$495

annually

Solo 401(k)

Learn More

If you have self-employment income, the Solo 401(k) is the best way to invest in real estate with retirement funds. Unlike IRAs, 401(k) plans are exempt from UBTI, a tax for investors using leverage to invest in real estate.

$999

setup fee

$399

annually

The Benefits of Investing in Precious Metals with Retirement Funds

Precious metals like gold and silver provide a hedge against stock market volatility, inflation, and economic uncertainty. They have historically held their value during periods of high inflation, helping to protect your purchasing power over time. Further, they’re considered safe-haven assets that retain value when other markets dip. Long-term growth paired with tax advantages make investing metals with retirement funds a savvy, saving strategy.

    Better tax advantages

    In general, all income or gains from a precious metals investment held in a retirement account are tax-deferred—or tax free in the case of a Roth account.

    Inflation protection

    Precious metals are widely recognized as a long-term hedge against inflation, helping preserve purchasing power as the cost of living rises.

    Greater liquidity

    Most precious metals are in constant global demand and actively traded across international markets, making it one of the most liquid assets available. Its high liquidity means you can buy or sell with ease, making it a smart and flexible addition to any retirement plan.

    Greater earning potential

    The value of metals, such as gold, silver, and palladium, often increases during periods of economic stress, offering strong growth potential when other markets struggle.

    Direct investment control

    Choose the type and quantity of metals to hold in your account—without relying on fund managers or limited investment menus.

    Built-in asset protection

    Precious metals held within a retirement account are protected from personal liability and may offer a level of security during market uncertainty.

    Precious Metals You Can Invest in with a SDIRA

    With a Self-Directed retirement account, you can diversify your retirement portfolio and hedge against inflation and economic uncertainty by investing in IRS-approved precious metals. These include:

    Gold

    Coins or bars that meet a minimum fineness of 0.995, such as American Gold Eagles and Canadian Gold Maple Leafs.

    Silver

    Coins or bars with a fineness of at least 0.999, including American Silver Eagles and Austrian Silver Philharmonics.

    Platinum

    Must meet a minimum fineness of 0.9995, such as the American Platinum Eagle.

    Palladium

    Also requires a minimum fineness of 0.9995, with options like the Canadian Palladium Maple Leaf.

    Us vs Other Self-Directed Retirement Providers

    When investing in precious metals through your retirement account, fees can add up quickly. Many self-directed account providers charge asset-based fees that increase as the value of your gold grows—cutting into your long-term gains. Our flat-fee model keeps your costs predictable and transparent, so more of your retirement funds stays in your account where it belongs.

    IRA Financial Other Providers
    Flat Annual Fee
    $0 Account & Transaction Fees
    $0 Admin & Processing Fees
    Expert-Guided Investments
    Guaranteed IRS Audit Protection
    Annual Tax Consulting
    Annual Reporting & Filing Service

    Book a Consultation

    Schedule a free consultation with a member of our team to explore how opening a self-directed retirement account can unlock your ability to invest tax-free in a variety of alternative assets.

    Let’s Talk!

    See What Our Clients Have to Say

    I’m beyond pleased with having my self-directed IRA in your teams capable hands. In a few short months, it’s already proving to be a solid retirement investment vehicle. The fees are insignificant compared to the value. Many thanks.

    Ann M. C.

    Illinois

    The process of setting up my self-directed IRA was quick and painless. There were a lot of forms to be completed, but the customer service at IRA Financial Group is great and they are very quick to respond. I was able to complete my set up quickly and get my funds transferred very quickly. Thanks!

    Christy

    Virginia

    I am extremely pleased with the service and professionalism provided by the IRA Financial Group. I don’t think you can find a better firm to handled Self Directed IRA accounts. Keep up the great work and I will always do business with you.

    Owen S.

    Texas

    IRA Financial Group was invaluable in setting up my account. They explained all of the details involved with the process and made the entire evolution simple and efficient. If someone is considering a self-directed IRA, IRA Financial Group is the clear choice.

    Michael J.

    Utah

    FAQs On Investing In Precious Metals with Retirement Funds

    Thinking about adding precious metals to your retirement investment strategy? Below are answers to some of the most frequently asked questions related to precious metal investing with a self-directed retirement account.

    Can I hold physical metals with my 401(k) or IRA?

    Yes, but only through a Self-Directed IRA (SDIRA) or Solo 401(k) that allows physical precious metals. The metals must meet IRS fineness standards and be stored in an approved depository. Traditional financial institutions and banks do not allow investors to hold physical metals. Instead, you can invest in mutual funds, ETFs, and the like that are invested in the metals.

    You can invest in gold, silver, platinum, and palladium—as long as they meet IRS purity requirements. These include:

    • Platinum/Palladium: Approved bars and coins
    • Gold: American Eagle, Canadian Maple Leaf
    • Silver: American Silver Eagle, Austrian Philharmonic

    No, IRS rules prohibit storing IRA-owned metals or coins at home or in a personal safe. To remain compliant with regulations, the metals and coins must be held in the physical possession of an IRS-approved depository or self-directed retirement account custodian.

    Storing the metals at home—even if it’s titled to your retirement account—can be considered a prohibited transaction by the IRS. This could lead to serious consequences, including disqualification of your entire account, early withdrawal penalties, and immediate taxation on the full account value.

    To protect your retirement assets and ensure full compliance, always use an approved storage facility that meets IRS custody requirements.

    Yes! IRA Financial does not limit your investment options with our self-directed retirement plans. There are only three things you cannot invest in, as per the IRS: 

    • life insurance
    • collectibles
    • any transaction involving a disqualified person. 

    Apart from those, you can invest in anything you want with IRA Financial, including real estate, cryptos, private equity and many more alternative assets.

    As long as the metals remain inside of the retirement account, there are no tax implications whatsoever! You can buy, sell, and trade at your leisure and not have a tax bill. Taxes are only due once you withdraw the funds (or metals) from the plan. In the case of a Roth-type account, qualified distributions are never taxable.

    As long as the metals remain inside of the retirement account, there are no tax implications whatsoever! You can buy, sell, and trade at your leisure and not have a tax bill. Taxes are only due once you withdraw the funds (or metals) from the plan. In the case of a Roth-type account, qualified distributions are never taxable.

    Ready to plan for your future?

    Take control of your retirement by investing in alternative assets like real estate, cryptocurrency, businesses, and more. Start creating wealth today by opening an account.

    Open Account

    Ready to plan for your future?

    Take control of your retirement by investing in alternative assets like real estate, cryptocurrency, businesses, and more. Start creating wealth today by opening an account.

    Open Account

    Related Articles