What precious metals are allowed in an IRA?

The IRS allows four precious metals in an IRA under IRC §408(m): gold (.995+ fine), silver (.999+ fine), platinum (.9995+ fine), and palladium (.9995+ fine). Each metal must be produced by a national government mint or NYMEX/COMEX-approved refiner and stored at an IRS-approved depository. Common examples: American Gold Eagles, American Silver Eagles, American Platinum Eagles, and PAMP Suisse bars.

What is an IRA precious metals account?

An IRA precious metals account is a self-directed IRA (SDIRA) that holds physical precious metals — gold, silver, platinum, or palladium — instead of traditional stocks and bonds. It provides the same tax advantages as a conventional IRA (tax-deferred or tax-free growth) while giving the investor direct ownership of tangible assets with no counterparty risk.

What is the minimum purity for IRA precious metals?

IRS minimum purity requirements under IRC §408(m)(3): Gold — .995 fine (exception: American Gold Eagle at .9167), Silver — .999 fine, Platinum — .9995 fine, Palladium — .9995 fine. Products below these thresholds, including junk silver, sterling silver, and most collectible coins, are not eligible for IRA inclusion.

Can I store IRA precious metals at home?

No. Home storage of IRA precious metals is a prohibited transaction under IRC §4975. All IRA precious metals must be held at an IRS-approved depository under the control of a qualified IRA custodian. The Tax Court ruled against home storage in McNulty v. Commissioner (T.C. Memo 2021-37). Violation triggers full taxation of the IRA balance plus penalties.

What are the 2026 IRA contribution limits for precious metals IRAs?

For 2026, IRA contribution limits are $7,000 per year for individuals under age 50, and $8,000 for those 50 and older. These limits apply across all IRAs. Rollover transfers from 401(k)s or existing IRAs have no dollar limit. Precious metals IRAs use the same contribution limits as traditional and Roth IRAs.

What is the difference between gold and silver IRA precious metals?

Gold is more stable (~$3,200/oz, lower volatility) and compact to store. Silver is more volatile (2-3x gold), lower per-ounce cost (~$34/oz), and has strong industrial demand (55% of supply from solar, electronics, medical). Most CFPs recommend holding both in a precious metals IRA: 60-70% gold for stability and 25-35% silver for growth leverage.

Which companies offer the best IRA precious metals accounts?

The best IRA precious metals companies in 2026 are Augusta Precious Metals (#1 overall, BBB A+, $50K minimum), Goldco (#2, best for beginners, $25K), American Hartford Gold (#3, lowest minimum at $10K), Birch Gold Group (#4, most experienced, 20+ years), and Noble Gold (#5, best multi-metal selection). All are BBB A+ rated.

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