Precious Metals IRAs
Physical precious metals held through a self-directed retirement account.
A precious metals IRA uses an independent custodian to administer the account and an approved depository to hold qualifying physical metal.
Administrator
Independent IRA custodian
Asset
IRS-eligible physical bullion
Custody
Approved depository
Account Structure
Four distinct roles.
The client directs the account. The custodian administers it. Liberty supplies the approved metal. The depository receives and stores the metal for the account.
These roles are separate. Liberty does not control client retirement funds and does not provide tax or legal advice.
- Client authorizes transactions
- Custodian handles account administration
- Dealer supplies eligible metal
- Depository maintains physical custody
Funding
Transfers, rollovers, and contributions.
Funding may come from an eligible transfer, rollover, or contribution, depending on the account and the client's circumstances. The custodian determines the administrative process and required forms.
Clients should verify tax treatment and eligibility with the custodian and their own tax professional before moving funds.
Eligible Metal
Product eligibility is specific.
Federal rules impose fineness and product requirements for metals held in an IRA. Collectible treatment, product type, mint, and purity can affect eligibility.
Liberty identifies the proposed products in the transaction documentation. The custodian must accept the assets for the account.
- Gold generally .995 fine or higher, subject to statutory exceptions
- Silver generally .999 fine or higher
- Platinum and palladium generally .9995 fine or higher
- Custodian acceptance remains required
Storage
IRA metal is not delivered to the account owner.
Metal held inside the IRA is delivered to an approved depository through the custodian-directed process. Personal possession may be treated as a distribution.
Storage fees, account fees, insurance terms, and withdrawal procedures are determined by the independent service providers and should be reviewed before funding.
IRA reference material.
Rollover Guide
Review the distinction between direct transfers, direct rollovers, and client-received funds.
Read more →Custodian Selection
Review administration, fee schedules, service standards, and depository relationships.
Read more →IRA-Eligible Metals
Review general eligibility standards and confirm acceptance for a specific account.
Read more →Contact Liberty
Discuss a precious metals IRA transaction.
Ask about account structure, product availability, pricing, custody, delivery, or the brokerage process.