Rolling over an existing retirement account into a gold IRA is one of the most common ways investors add physical metals to their retirement portfolio. Here is how it works.
The Rollover Process
Step 1: Choose a Custodian and Dealer
Select a self-directed IRA custodian and a precious metals dealer. Intervault Trading works with established custodian partners to streamline this process.
Step 2: Open Your Self-Directed IRA
Complete the custodian\'s application. This typically takes 1-3 business days.
Step 3: Initiate the Rollover
Contact your current plan administrator and request a direct rollover to your new self-directed IRA custodian. A direct rollover (trustee-to-trustee) avoids any tax withholding.
Step 4: Fund the Account
The funds typically arrive within 5-10 business days, depending on your current plan administrator.
Step 5: Purchase Metals
Once funded, work with your dealer to select IRA-eligible products. The custodian directs payment and the metals ship to the depository.
Direct vs Indirect Rollovers
- Direct rollover — money transfers from your old account directly to the new custodian. No tax withholding, no deadline pressure. This is the recommended method
- Indirect rollover — you receive a check and must deposit the full amount into the new IRA within 60 days. Your old plan withholds 20% for taxes (refunded when you file if you complete the rollover). Miss the 60-day window and the distribution becomes taxable income plus a 10% early withdrawal penalty if under 59½
Common Mistakes to Avoid
- Missing the 60-day deadline on an indirect rollover
- Not completing a full rollover — if you only deposit part of the distribution, the remainder is taxable
- Choosing non-eligible products — not all gold and silver products qualify for IRA inclusion
- Home storage — storing IRA metals at home violates IRS rules and can disqualify your entire IRA