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Gold IRA Rollover Guide

How to move your 401(k), IRA, or other retirement funds into physical gold—tax-free.

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Updated: December 2025•12 min read

Key Takeaway

You can move retirement funds into a Gold IRA through a direct rollover with no taxes or penalties. The process takes 2-3 weeks and requires a self-directed IRA custodian.

Accounts Eligible for Gold IRA Rollover

✓ Eligible

  • • Traditional IRA
  • • Roth IRA
  • • 401(k) (if separated from employer)
  • • 403(b)
  • • 457(b)
  • • TSP (Thrift Savings Plan)
  • • SEP IRA
  • • SIMPLE IRA

✗ Not Eligible

  • • Active 401(k) (still employed)
  • • Pension plans (typically)
  • • Inherited IRAs (special rules)

Two Types of Rollovers

Direct Rollover (Recommended)

Funds transfer directly from your old account to your new Gold IRA. You never touch the money.

Indirect Rollover (Risky)

You receive a check, then have 60 days to deposit into your new IRA.

Bottom line: Always do a direct rollover unless you have a specific reason not to.

Step-by-Step Rollover Process

  1. Step 1: Choose a Gold IRA Company
    Select a reputable company (Augusta, Goldco, Birch Gold, etc.). They'll guide you through the rest.
  2. Step 2: Open a Self-Directed IRA
    Your Gold IRA company helps you open an account with a custodian (Equity Trust, STRATA, etc.).
  3. Step 3: Initiate the Rollover
    Your Gold IRA company and custodian handle paperwork to request funds from your old account.
  4. Step 4: Funds Transfer
    Money moves directly from old account to new custodian. Takes 1-3 weeks.
  5. Step 5: Purchase Metals
    Once funds arrive, work with your Gold IRA company to select and purchase precious metals.
  6. Step 6: Depository Storage
    Metals ship to an IRS-approved depository. You'll receive confirmation.

IRS Rules for Gold IRAs

Not all gold qualifies for an IRA. IRS requirements:

Approved examples: American Eagles, Canadian Maple Leafs, Australian Kangaroos, PAMP Suisse bars

Not allowed: Collectible coins, jewelry, foreign coins below purity standards

Common Mistakes to Avoid

Frequently Asked Questions

Is a Gold IRA rollover taxable?

No, if done as a direct rollover. Funds transfer between custodians without triggering a taxable event.

Can I rollover my 401(k) while still employed?

Usually no. Most 401(k) plans require separation from the employer. Check your plan's rules for "in-service distributions."

How long does a Gold IRA rollover take?

Typically 2-3 weeks from start to finish, depending on your old account's processing time.

Ready to Rollover?

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Disclosure: This is informational content, not tax advice. Consult a tax professional for your specific situation.