Gold and your 401(k), in plain English.

Begin with what you already have

A 401(k) is an employer-sponsored retirement plan. An IRA is an individual retirement account. A self-directed IRA can permit a wider range of holdings, including certain physical precious metals. “Gold 401(k)” is not a separate account category, and owning gold in an IRA does not automatically change the tax rules.

Learn the four terms you will hear most

These terms describe different parts of ownership.

• Bullion: metal valued mainly for its fine metal content, plus a premium.
• Premium: the amount paid above the underlying metal reference value.
• Custodian: the institution that administers the IRA.
• Depository: the facility and service that safeguards stored metals.

Ask what you want the metal to do

Are you exploring diversification, physical ownership, or the history of collectible coins? Those are different objectives. Write down your goal, the money you may need soon, and the amount of price fluctuation you can tolerate. A product’s appeal does not settle whether it belongs in your retirement account.

Choose a learning path

Read the Gold Guide to understand products and pricing. Read the Silver Guide to compare common bullion with historic silver dollars. Read the IRA Guide for eligibility, funding, and custody. The three guides work together, but you can start with the question most relevant to you.

Bring a short question list

Before you move money, use your current plan documents and a written quote to make the conversation specific.

• Can my current plan release an eligible distribution?
• What would I give up by leaving my current plan?
• What are the total purchase and yearly ownership costs?
• Who administers the account and where are the metals stored?
• How would I sell or take a distribution later?