Protect Your Retirement with Physical Gold

Open a self-directed Gold IRA and add physical gold to your retirement portfolio. Same tax advantages as a traditional IRA. Real, tangible assets you own. Funded in as little as 3 days.
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  • 4.9/5 Rating
  • IRS Compliant
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Growth Since 1971
+ 0 %
Assets Protected
$ 0 M+
Families Served
0 +
“The first rule of investing is never to lose money.”
— Warren Buffett

Gold IRA Fundamentals

What Is a Gold IRA?

A Gold IRA is a self-directed individual retirement account that holds physical gold, silver, platinum, or palladium instead of paper-based assets like stocks, bonds, or mutual funds.
In what is commonly known as a Gold IRA, Americans take advantage of a private retirement account that includes physical precious metals and other alternative assets. These options are not available with traditional IRAs or employer-sponsored retirement plans.
A Gold IRA functions exactly like a traditional or Roth IRA in terms of contribution limits, tax treatment, and distribution rules. The primary difference is what you hold inside the account: physical precious metals stored in an IRS-approved depository.

Understanding Self-Directed IRAs

A self-directed IRA (SDIRA) is the vehicle that makes Gold IRAs possible. Unlike a standard IRA, an SDIRA allows you to invest in alternative assets beyond stocks and mutual funds, including precious metals, real estate, and private equity.
To open a self-directed Gold IRA, you need three parties: you (the account holder), a custodian (an IRS-approved financial institution), and a depository (an IRS-approved vault). Cedar Gold Group coordinates all three so you spend 10 to 15 minutes on paperwork.

Gold IRA vs. Traditional IRA

FeatureTraditional IRAGold IRA
Assets HeldStocks, bonds,
mutual funds		Physical gold, silver,
platinum, palladium
TangibilityPaper/digital assetsReal, physical metals
Inflation
Protection		LimitedStrong historical hedge
Market
Correlation		Directly tied to
markets		Often moves inversely
Tax TreatmentSame rules applySame rules apply
StorageBrokerage accountIRS-approved depository
Counterparty
Risk		Subject to issuer
default		No counterparty risk

Gold vs. the U.S. Dollar Since 1971

Performance comparison since gold began trading freely.

Gold

Growth
+ 0 %

U.S. Dollar

Purchasing Power Decline
- 0 %

1913

1971 (Nixon ends gold standard)

TODAY

Source: Bureau of Labor Statistics CPI data, gold spot price history. Past performance does not guarantee future results.

Gold vs. the U.S. Dollar Since 1971

Performance comparison since gold began trading freely.

Gold

Growth
+ 0 %

U.S. Dollar

Purchasing Power Decline
- 0 %

1913

1971 (Nixon ends gold standard)

TODAY

Source: Bureau of Labor Statistics CPI data, gold spot price history. Past performance does not guarantee future results.

Fortify Your Retirement

Five Ways Gold Protects Your Retirement Portfolio

1. Protection Against Currency Devaluation
Every dollar the Federal Reserve prints reduces the purchasing power of every dollar already in circulation. Since 2000, the U.S. money supply (M2) has increased from approximately $4.6 trillion to over $21 trillion. During that same period, gold rose from roughly $270/oz to over $2,900/oz.
2. Hedge Against Rising Inflation
Gold has been the most reliable inflation hedge across centuries. During the 1970s, gold rose from $35/oz to $850/oz, an increase of over 2,300%. Between 2020 and 2024, when inflation reached 40-year highs, gold climbed from $1,700/oz to over $2,400/oz.
3. Safe Haven During Market Crises
In the 2001 dot-com crash, gold rose while the NASDAQ lost 78%. In the 2008 Great Recession, gold gained approximately 25% while the S&P 500 lost over half its value. During COVID-19, gold reached record highs above $2,000/oz.
4. Portfolio Stabilizer with Low Correlation
Gold has a near-zero to negative correlation with the S&P 500 over long periods. A portfolio holding 10% gold and 90% stocks has historically delivered returns comparable to an all-stock portfolio with significantly lower drawdowns.
5. Global Demand Supports Long-Term Value
Gold demand comes from central bank purchases, jewelry, industrial applications, and investment demand. Central banks have been net buyers every year since 2010. In 2023 alone, they purchased over 1,000 metric tons of gold.

Protect Your Wealth

Eligible Accounts for a Precious Metals IRA

You can fund a Gold IRA through a rollover or transfer from any of these existing retirement accounts. No taxes or penalties when completed correctly.
Account TypeEligible for RolloverTransfer Method
Traditional IRAYesDirect transfer or 60-day rollover
Roth IRAYesDirect transfer (Roth to Roth)
401(k)YesDirect rollover (most common)
403(b)YesDirect rollover
TSP (Thrift Savings Plan)YesDirect rollover
SEP IRAYesDirect transfer
SIMPLE IRAYes (after 2 years)Direct transfer
457(b)YesDirect rollover
Pension PlanYes (if distributable)Direct rollover

Protect Your Wealth

The Wealth Protection Playbook
Get everything you need to start your Gold IRA. Download our free Wealth Protection Playbook.
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Simple 4-Step Process

How a Gold IRA Works

Opening a Gold IRA is straightforward. Our specialists handle the paperwork and guide you through every step. Most accounts are funded in as little as 3 days.

STEp 01

Talk to a Specialist

Call (855) 404-6015 to discuss your retirement goals. Your specialist explains your options and helps choose the right account type.

No Obligation

STEp 02

Open Your Account

CGG handles nearly all the paperwork for you with a trusted IRS-approved custodian your part takes just 10 to 15 minutes

10-15 min

STEp 03

Fund Your IRA

Transfer or roll over funds from your existing retirement account. Direct transfers are tax-free and penalty-free.

As Few As 3 Days

STEp 04

Select Your Metals

Choose from IRS-approved gold, silver, platinum, or palladium. Your metals ship to a secure, insured depository.

You Choose

How Your Money Flows
  • Your existing 401(k) or IRA
  • New Self-Directed Gold IRA
  • IRS-Approved Custodian
  • Secure Depository Storage
Direct transfers move tax-free. No penalties. No taxable events.

IRA-Eligible Gold

IRA-Eligible Gold Products

The IRS requires gold to be .995 fine (99.5% pure) or higher for IRA eligibility. The American Gold Eagle receives a special exemption at .9167 purity.
  • Popular
  • IRA ELIGIBLE

1 oz .9999 Gold Maple Leaf (Year Varies)

Purity: 0.9999
  • $50 CAD •
  • Royal Canadian Mint
  • GOLD COIN
Learn More
  • Popular
  • IRA ELIGIBLE

2022 1/4 oz Gold Rocky Mountain Elk Coin

Purity: 0.9999
  • $10 NZD •
  • New Zealand Mint
  • GOLD COIN
Learn More
  • Popular
  • IRA ELIGIBLE

Four Coin Proof Gold Eagle Set – Box/COA (Date Varies)

Purity: 0.9167
  • Varies •
  • United States Mint
  • GOLD COIN
Learn More
  • Popular
  • IRA ELIGIBLE

2025 1/4 oz Gold Lady Liberty – Freedom & Strength Coin

Purity: 0.9999
  • $10 •
  • New Zealand Mint
  • GOLD COIN
Learn More
  • Popular
  • IRA ELIGIBLE

2025 1/4 oz Gold Yellowstone Moose Coin

Purity: 0.9999
  • $10 •
  • New Zealand Mint
  • GOLD COIN
Learn More
  • Popular
  • IRA ELIGIBLE

1/4 oz St. Helena Rose Crown Gold Coin (Year Varies)

Purity: 0.9999
  • £25 (St. Helena) •
  • East India Company
  • GOLD COIN
Learn More
View All Products

Secure Vaulting

Where Your Gold Is Stored

IRS regulations require Gold IRA metals to be held in an approved depository. Cedar Gold Group works with the most trusted names in precious metals storage.
Segregated Storage
Your metals stored separately in a designated space. You receive the exact coins you purchased.
  • Individual designated vault space
  • Receive your exact coins back
  • Highest ownership assurance
  • Fully insured and audited
Non-Segregated (Commingled)
Your metals stored alongside others of same type and purity. You receive matching specifications on distribution.
  • Shared vault with same-type metals
  • Receive same specs, different coins
  • Lower cost, same metal value
  • Budget-friendly option
Learn More

Free Download

Get Your Free Wealth Protection Playbook

Everything you need to understand Gold IRAs, compare your options, and make an informed decision about protecting your retirement savings.
  • How Gold IRAs work
  • IRS rules and eligible metals
  • Fee comparison and cost savings
  • Rollover checklist and timeline
(855) 404-6015

IRA Rules & Regulations

Gold IRA Rules You Need to Know

Types of Gold IRA Accounts

Traditional Gold IRA: Funded with pre-tax dollars. Contributions may be tax-deductible. Gains grow tax-deferred. Distributions taxed as ordinary income. RMDs start at age 73.

Roth Gold IRA: Funded with after-tax dollars. Gains grow tax-free. Qualified distributions are tax-free. No RMDs during the owner’s lifetime.

SEP Gold IRA: For self-employed and small business owners. Higher contribution limits (up to 25% of compensation or $72,000).

SIMPLE Gold IRA: For businesses with 100 or fewer employees. Both employer and employee contributions with lower admin costs.
FeatureTraditionalRothSEPSIMPLE
Tax DeductionYesNoYesYes
Tax-Free WithdrawalsNoYesNoNo
2026 Limit$7,000$7,000$69,000$16,500
Catch-Up (50+)+$1,000+$1,000N/A+$3,500
RMDs RequiredAge 73NoneAge 73Age 73
Best ForTax deduction nowTax-free retirementSelf-employedSmall business

The Precious Metals Exception: IRC Section 408(m)(3)

Gold must be .995 fine (99.5% pure). Silver must be .999 fine. Platinum and palladium must be .9995 fine. These metals must be produced by a national government mint or accredited refiner. The American Gold Eagle receives a special exemption at .9167 purity.

Items Prohibited in a Gold IRA

Collectible coins (pre-1933 gold), jewelry, artwork, gems, antiques, South African Krugerrands, British Sovereigns (pre-2013), and any gold below .995 purity (except American Eagles). Purchasing these through your IRA is treated as a distribution.

Investment Benefits

Benefits of a Gold IRA

Zero

Counterparty Risk

Physical gold has no default risk—you own it outright

Tax-Free

Roth Growth

Gold in a Roth IRA grows and distributes completely tax-free

5,000+

Years of Value

Gold has maintained purchasing power across every civilization

+1500%

Gold Since 2000

Strong long-term price appreciation during periods of U.S. dollar decline.

-97%

Dollar Decline

U.S. dollar purchasing power lost since 1913

1,037t

Central Bank Buying

Tonnes of gold purchased by central banks in 2023
Considerations
  • Storage and custodial fees (typically a few hundred dollars annually)
  • No dividends or interest income from metals
  • Must use an IRS-approved custodian and depository
  • Cannot store metals at home in an IRA
  • Less liquid than selling stocks (though still sellable)
  • Metals must meet IRS purity requirements
  • Early withdrawal penalties before age 59½ (same as traditional IRA)
Advantages
  • Diversifies your portfolio beyond paper assets
  • Hedges against inflation and dollar devaluation
  • Physical asset you own outright
  • Tax-deferred or tax-free growth (Traditional vs. Roth)
  • Not correlated with stock market movements
  • Protection during recessions and financial crises
  • No counterparty risk (unlike stocks or bonds)
  • Rollover from existing accounts with no tax penalty

Transparent Pricing

Gold IRA Fees and Costs

Understanding the fee structure helps you make an informed decision. Gold IRA fees are typically lower than the ongoing costs of traditional financial advisors.

Fee TypeTypical RangeNotes
Account Setup$50 to $150One-time fee to establish your self-directed IRA
Annual Storage Fee$100 to $300Varies by depository and storage type
Transaction/Wire Fee$25 to $50Per-transaction fee for buying or selling metals

Learn More

Gold IRA Resources

Jobs Beat, Oil Spikes, Fed Holds Firm: Institutional Gold Buyers Aren’t Leaving

China's central bank added to gold reserves for the 19th consecutive month as of May 2026, with reserves rising to
Read More >

Sequence of Returns Risk: Why Timing Can Wreck a Retirement

Sequence of returns risk can drain your retirement savings faster than inflation. Learn how it works, why the first decade
Read More >

What Your Retirement Savings Are Really Worth After Inflation

The dollar's purchasing power has eroded for over a century. Learn what drives this decline and how gold helps protect
Read More >

Frequently Asked Questions

Gold IRA FAQ

What is a Gold IRA?

A Gold IRA is a self-directed individual retirement account that holds physical gold (and potentially other precious metals) instead of paper assets like stocks and bonds. It offers the same tax advantages as a traditional or Roth IRA. The gold is stored at an IRS-approved depository and managed through a custodian.

You open a self-directed IRA with an approved custodian. You fund the account through a rollover from an existing 401(k), IRA, TSP, or other retirement account. You also make direct annual contributions up to $7,000 ($8,000 if over 50). You then select IRS-approved gold coins or bars to purchase. Your metals are shipped to a secure, insured depository.

A Gold IRA rollover is the process of moving funds from an existing retirement account (401k, IRA, TSP, 403b, etc.) into a new self-directed Gold IRA. The most common method is a direct rollover, where your current plan administrator sends the funds directly to your new Gold IRA custodian. No taxable event and no withholding.
Yes. A direct rollover from a 401(k) to a Gold IRA is tax-free and penalty-free. Your current plan administrator sends the funds directly to your new Gold IRA custodian. You never receive the money personally, so there is no taxable event.
There is no IRS-mandated minimum for a Gold IRA. Most custodians and dealers recommend a minimum of $25,000 to $50,000 to make the annual storage and custodial fees cost-effective relative to your investment size.
The IRS requires gold to be .995 fine (99.5% pure) or higher for IRA eligibility. The exception is the American Gold Eagle at .9167 purity, which received a special Congressional exemption. Popular eligible products include American Gold Eagles, Canadian Maple Leafs, American Gold Buffalos, and qualifying gold bars.
No. The IRS requires all IRA precious metals to be stored at an IRS-approved depository. Storing metals at home is treated as a distribution, triggering income taxes and potentially a 10% early withdrawal penalty.
Gold IRA fees typically include a one-time account setup fee ($50-$150), an annual custodial fee ($75-$300), and an annual storage fee ($100-$300). These flat-rate fees are often lower than the percentage-based fees charged by traditional financial advisors.
A Gold IRA can be an effective tool for diversifying your retirement portfolio. Gold has historically maintained its value during periods of inflation, market volatility, and economic uncertainty. Financial advisors commonly recommend allocating 5-15% of a retirement portfolio to precious metals.

You instruct your custodian to liquidate some or all of your gold holdings. Cedar Gold Group offers a buyback guarantee, repurchasing any product we have sold at competitive market rates. Proceeds remain in your IRA (tax-deferred) or can be distributed to you.

Why Thousands of Americans Choose Cedar Gold

Trust is earned through transparency, expertise, and results. Here’s what sets Cedar Gold apart.

2,500+

Families Served

$180M+

Assets Protected

4.9/5

Google Rating

A+

BBB Rating

A+ BBB Rating

Highest rating from the Better Business Bureau.

Proud Partner of the Miami Marlins

Proud Precious Metals Partner of the Miami Marlins

Olympic Gold Medalist Endorsement

Trusted by Olympic champion Bryan Clay.

Zero Liquidation Fees

No fees when you sell your metals back to us.

Top Buyback Guarantee

We buy back any product we sell at competitive market rates.

“Our mission is simple: help hardworking Americans protect what they’ve spent a lifetime building. We believe in education over salesmanship, transparency over pressure, and relationships over transactions.”
— Brett Bultje, CEO & Founder
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