Rolling Over Your 401(k) to a Precious Metals IRA: What You Need to Know

If you're like many people with retirement on the horizon, you've probably accumulated a significant IRA and are looking forward to an active and pleasant retirement. However, you may also have concerns about safeguarding your investments in a fluctuating and sometimes unstable economy, and you've probably heard a few horror stories about how inflation has seriously depleted the retirement funds of many seniors. It doesn't have to be this way, though. Diversifying investments provides protection from volatile stock markets and other economic drivers and helps keep your golden years golden.

Rolling over your 401(k) into precious metals can provide a stable hedge against inflation and help keep your future secure, but the IRS has strict and specific rules regarding this practice.

Here's what you need to know:

You Must Purchase Precious Metals That Meet Certain Specifications

The IRS has minimum purity standards for precious metals included in a gold IRA. Furthermore, if you purchase coins instead of bullion, the coins must be from the U.S. Mint or an approved foreign mint and must not be considered to be highly desirable as collectibles.

Precious metals in bullion form approved by the IRS for precious metals IRAs include gold, silver, platinum, and palladium.

Precious Metals Must Be Stored Properly

The storage of precious metals must meet the guidelines established by the IRA. Most individuals hold their precious metals in an IRS-approved depository; however, others choose to keep them in their personal possession. If you would like to do the latter, please contact a trusted wealth preservation expert as the rules of holding precious metals in your personal possession are very complex.

Safeguard Metals has been specializing in helping people hedge their bets against an uncertain economy by investing in precious metals for a number of years. Our specialists are truly knowledgeable in all aspects of precious metal investing, including compliance with IRC Section 408(m)(3). Please feel free to contact us at your convenience for more information about converting your existing 401(k) to a self-directed precious metals IRA.

For more information about rolling over your 401(k) to a precious metals IRA, contact us today.