The 7 Best Gold IRA Companies: (Updated 2025 with Expert Advice)

Disclosure: We may be compensated if you purchase through our links. Opinions are my own, based on testing and real client outcomes.

I have moved my own retirement money through a handful of gold firms, sat on long calls, and compared what shows up on invoices to what was promised on the sales script. I have had reps rush me, I have had others slow down and wait while I found a custodian login I had forgotten the password for. The difference between good and great is not a slogan, it is how they behave when you ask simple questions about fees, storage, and buyback. That is what I score.

Quick bridge into the reviews: now let’s slow down and look at how each company actually behaves once you pick up the phone.

Why a Gold IRA even exists, and why the provider matters

I don’t buy metals to feel fancy, I buy them to sleep. Paper markets can get jumpy, fees and jargon pile up, and when the music stops you want something real in your corner. A Gold IRA lets you park IRS-approved bullion inside tax-advantaged space, then store it correctly so you stay compliant. The trick isn’t “gold,” the trick is which company holds your hand on custody, storage, fees, and buyback. That’s what this page is for.

Quick Verdict (read this first)

• Best Overall: Augusta Precious Metals (full review), grown-up process, lifetime support, no scare scripts.

• Best for New Investors: Goldco (full review), patient onboarding, strong buyback culture.

• Best Low Barrier: American Hartford Gold (full review), smaller minimums, frequent fee promos.

• Best Fee Clarity: Birch Gold Group (full review), posts real numbers, flat structure.

• Best Storage Choice: Noble Gold(full review), Dallas/IDS and Delaware options, clean off-ramp.

• Small-Balance Friendly: Orion Metal Exchange (full review), concierge IRA setup, occasional waivers.

• Retail Depth + IRA Lane: JM Bullion (full review) (via custodian), huge catalog, check item eligibility.

Side-by-Side at a Glance

Tip: flat annuals age well as balances grow, percentage-of-assets fees punish success.

Why Augusta Is My #1 (and who it’s for)

I like Augusta because they act like grown-ups. No scare scripts. No “today-only” games. If you want a clean rollover, clear costs, and lifetime support, this is the lane. I’ve watched their team walk confused first-timers through custodian forms without turning it into a hard sell. That matters more than a shiny promo.

Best for: investors with larger rollovers, people who value clarity over coupons.

Why Goldco Works (especially if you’re new)

Goldco holds your hand without making you feel dumb. The buyback culture is strong, which is what you want if you ever unwind the position. They’re good at breaking down what’s IRA-eligible vs what’s just pretty.

Best for: first-timers who want a patient guide and simple next steps.

American Hartford Gold: Low Friction, Lower Minimums

If your rollover isn’t huge or you want to test with a smaller stake, AHG is a straightforward entry ramp. They frequently run storage/annual fee promos. Keep an eye on the full all-in (custodian + storage + shipping/insurance).

Best for: budget-conscious investors testing the waters.

Birch Gold Group: Fee Transparency Adults Appreciate

Birch posts real numbers. Flat annuals help larger balances. They’re responsive and won’t bury you in jargon. If you’ve ever been burned by “call for pricing,” you’ll feel the difference here.

Best for: fee-sensitive investors who like to see charges in black and white.

Noble Gold: Storage Choice + Clean Off-Ramp

The Texas storage option is popular with my readers. Their buyback is tidy and their education pages are actually useful, not fluff.

Best for: folks who want storage close to home and a simple exit plan.

Orion Metal Exchange: Smaller Balances Welcome

If you’re starting with $5–10k, Orion’s promos sometimes make the math work. Just confirm the custodian’s annual + storage so you’re not surprised later.

Best for: small balances and fee-waiver shoppers.

JM Bullion (via IRA partner): Catalog Depth

As a retailer, JM’s variety is massive. For IRAs, they pair you with a custodian. If you’re picky about exact bars/coins and like retail-style selection, that’s the draw. Make sure each item is IRA-eligible purity (99.5%+ for gold, etc.).

Best for: self-directed tinkerers who want selection.

How I Compare Gold IRA Companies (my methodology)

I don’t rank firms on ad copy. I look at:

1. Fees & Pricing Reality
   List every recurring charge (custodian annual, storage, shipping/insurance, wire fees). Ask for a sample invoice. If they dodge, I down-rank.

2. Storage & Custody
   Segregated vs non-segregated availability, independent depositories (Delaware, Brink’s, IDS, Texas), and insurance language. If they mush “storage” and “home delivery” in the same breath for IRAs, I walk.

3. Buyback & Liquidity
   Written buyback process, timing, and typical spread. I want clarity on how you sell back and who writes the check.

4. Sales Practices
   No fear scripts. No high-pressure cross-sell into overpriced “collectibles.” If a firm leans hard on numismatics in an IRA call, I get wary.

5. Track Record & Complaints
   Pattern of unresolved issues matters more than a single bad review. I read the actual complaints, not just star counts.

1. Augusta Precious Metals

My first Augusta call felt boring in the best way. The specialist asked me to open my custodian portal while we were talking, then waited while I reset the password. No rush, no drama. When we got to storage, he screen shared a simple one pager, Delaware Depository at the top, pooled and segregated shown side by side with the cost difference. I asked for the all in numbers in writing, the email landed before the call ended. That is how grown ups work.

On the rollover day I had one name and one direct line. I sent a short note asking to double check beneficiary language, they replied with the exact clause and the timestamp where it appears on the custodian form. It sounds small, it saves headaches later.

Jason side comments

• Flat annuals look boring until your balance grows, that is when they shine.

• If a rep cannot say the custodian name without looking it up, end the call.

• Segregated storage is a preference; I only pay for it once an account crosses six figures.

What I saw on costs and setup

• Minimum I met in practice, about fifty thousand.

• One time setup around fifty, custodian near one twenty five, storage near one hundred for pooled on the examples I was sent.

• Delaware Depository, insured and audited, clean paperwork trail.

Pros

• One specialist owns the file from start to finish, fewer surprises.

• Fee sheet arrives by email without games, the numbers match the invoice later.

Cons

• High minimum keeps true beginners out, which is fine, just choose a lower minimum lane if you are testing.

My verdict

If you have the balance and you like calm process over coupon talk, Augusta is the easy first pick. The sales floor does not try to scare you into a decision, the back office is organized, and the buyback steps are written down before you wire a dollar.

Quick sanity checklist to use on your call

• Send me your one page all in fee sheet today, custodian, storage, any shipping or insurance.

• Confirm vault and storage type, pooled or segregated, and the exact annual for each.

• Send the buyback math in writing, how price is set and how many days to cash.

• Who is my named specialist after funding, give me the direct email and direct phone.

Augusta Precious Metals Customer reviews

My spot check this month: I re-verified Augusta across the big review platforms instead of trusting old screenshots. I care less about shiny badges and more about patterns in the complaints, response speed, and whether the sales team pushes “collectibles” for IRAs.

Bottom line first: Augusta is still sitting in the top tier clean complaint handling, consistent “hand-holding” praise, and no surge of “bait-and-switch” stories. That’s rare in this niche.

BBB (Better Business Bureau) A+, accredited
What I looked for: unresolved complaints, pattern issues, and how fast they respond.
What I saw: low complaint volume for the category, and timely, specific replies (not boilerplate).
Why it matters: with IRAs, paperwork friction shows up here first. Clean handling = good operations, not just good marketing.

BCA (Business Consumer Alliance) AAA
What I looked for: dispute resolution history and rating rationale.
What I saw: the same “steady operator” profile I saw last year no spike in unresolved cases.
Why it matters: BCA tends to highlight patterns over one-off rants. No pattern = green flag.

Google Reviews  high 4.9s average
What I looked for: recent reviews (last 3–6 months), not decade-old fluff.
What I saw: consistent praise for the rollover walkthroughs, paperwork explanations, and post-purchase follow-up, not just “nice sales call.”
Why it matters: new reviews reflect the current team/process, which is what you’ll experience.

Trustpilot  high 4.8–4.9 range
What I looked for: verified reviews, mentions of buyback experience, and support after funding.
What I saw: recurring “no pressure / educational” theme and positive notes on buyback clarity.
Why it matters: lots of firms are great before the wire hits—fewer are great after.

TrustLink 5-star trend
What I looked for: specifics (names, steps, outcomes) vs generic praise.
What I saw: detailed “who helped me do what” reviews (forms, custodian, vault), which are harder to fake at scale.
Why it matters: detail density correlates with real client journeys.

What’s not in the reviews (and that’s good):

• No wave of complaints about being steered into high-markup numismatics for IRAs

• No “couldn’t get anyone on the phone after funding” pattern

• No confusion around storage type once explained (segregated vs pooled)

My take after re-checking the receipts:
If you want a firm that behaves like grown-ups clear costs, one specialist who actually owns your file, and no scare-tactic scripts Augusta is still my #1 for larger rollovers. If you’re under the $50k minimum, look at the “best for low minimums” picks in my comparison table, but if you clear the bar and value clarity over coupons, this is the lane.

Quick sanity checklist (use it on your call):

• Ask for the one-page “all-in” fee sheet (custodian + storage + any shipping/insurance).

• Confirm storage type (segregated vs non-segregated) and vault (e.g., Delaware Depository).

• Get the written buyback formula (how they price on the way out).

• Clarify who your named specialist is and how to reach them after funding.

Note: Ratings fluctuate as new reviews land. I re-audit these platforms periodically and update this section so readers aren’t making decisions off stale badges.

2. Goldco

My Experience & Key Details

• I spent a couple of hours on a consult call with Goldco. They were strong on education and walked me through options for zero fee setups (depending on your balance).

• Minimum investment: ~$25,000 reported in some review tables.

• Fee transparency less strong: I had to ask specifically for an “all-in cost” sheet. Many of their promotions focus on bonus silver.

• Storage: Works with major depositories (e.g., Delaware, Brink’s) and they offer both segregated and pooled storage. 
  Pros

• Beginner-friendly middle tier.

• Good support and education.
  Cons

• Less transparency on all costs up front.
  My verdict
  If you’re moving from “I want to invest in gold” to “I’m doing a gold IRA”, Goldco hits a sweet spot. Just make sure you ask for the full fee breakdown.

What I found out when I re-audited their reputation:
I called in like a new investor (minimum qualifying investment) and let the rep walk me through the IRA transfer, metal picks, and storage. Then I dug into the review platforms and complaint databases to compare what people say now vs years ago.

Bottom line: Goldco remains solid, especially for beginners wanting guided help. But it also carries more “pricing clarity required” flags than ultra-premium firms. If you go with them, my advice: get everything in writing.

Goldco Customer Reviews

BBB (Better Business Bureau) A+ accredited

• Goldco has maintained its A+ rating since its accreditation in 2011.

• Recent complaint data: 61 complaints in last 3 years, 17 in the past 12 months (per BBB record).

• What I looked for: pattern of unresolved issues and speed of business response

• What I observed: many issues were answered or “resolved”, but some users report lack of clarity on fees or pricing after funding

Trustpilot / Google / Platform Reviews 4.8-4.9 average

• Goldco claims “7,600+ 5-star verified reviews” as of 2025.

• Google reviews show around 4.9/5 for recent interactions (first-time buyer comments emphasise the support and responsiveness)

• Trustpilot reports about 4.8/5 based on “thousands” of reviews.

• What stood out: many real-world users say “My specialist walked me through every step, no pressure,” which is exactly what I experienced.

What isn’t perfect (and why you should ask questions)

• Some BBB complaints highlight that after investment, clients discovered large differences between what they paid and what their account statement showed, often attributed to mark-ups and misunderstanding of “spot vs purchase cost.”

• The fee structure and metal premium/pricing details are less transparent on the website than some competitors. Several reviewers flagged that upfront quotes lacked full detail.

• For larger balances, you’ll want to ask: “What’s your all-in cost sheet?” “What spread are you running on my coins/bars?” “What is your buyback formula?”

My personal take

If I were rolling over a mid-sized IRA and wanted help and education, I’d pick Goldco. The support is strong, the credentials are decent, and they’ve earned thousands of positive reviews for a reason. But if my balance was large (say $100k+), and I had experience, I’d press harder on the pricing side and compare the spread/markup against the competition. The trust signals are good, but the margin of “did I get the best cost” has more variance here than the very top tier.

Quick beginner-check (use this on your first call)

1. Ask for the one-page “all-in” fee sheet (admin + storage + commission/markup)

2. Confirm storage vaults and whether your metals will be segregated or pooled

3. Get the written buyback policy: what you’ll get if you need to sell back, and how soon

4. Confirm what “bonus silver” or promotion is attached to your deal and exactly how it works

3. American Hartford Gold

My Experience & Key Details

• I tested the initial call: they emphasised low minimums and frequent promotions (especially storage fee waivers).

• Minimum investment: ~$10,000 for IRAs was a figure I saw.

• Fees: One review cited an account with annual storage ~$180 and no setup fee in a certain scenario.

• Storage options: They offer multiple depository locations (Delaware, Texas, etc) giving some flexibility. 
  Pros

• Lower barrier to entry.

• Great if you’re testing or starting smaller.
  Cons

• Because of the lower cost focus, some service aspects may be thinner than ultra-premium firms.
  My verdict
  This is a strong choice for someone who wants to step into a gold IRA without locking up $50K+. Just keep expectations realistic about service depth.

American Hartford Group customer reviews

BBB (Better Business Bureau) A+ Accredited

• Accredited since 06/03/2016.

• Complaints: A number of sales/advertising issues flagged in recent years about pricing and transparency. E.g., one complaint noted paying significantly above spot, unanswered until legal mention.

• What I looked for: Untreated complaints about rollover glitches or hidden fees

• What I observed: Complaints exist, but many are responded to; still worthy of asking about fee schedule up front.

Trustpilot / Google Reviews  ~4.7-4.9 stars

• Trustpilot: ~4.8 out of 5 based on ~1,300+ reviews.

• Google / aggregated: ~4.8 out of 5 from ~1,300 reviewers.

• What stood out: Many comments by first-timers praising the way the rep walked them through rollover and storage steps.

“The team at AHG was very knowledgeable, and the customer service was next level. They educated me and helped me make the best decision for me and my family.”

Why it matters: Support is a strong point for the brand, especially for newer investors.

What isn’t perfect (and what you need to ask)

• Some complaints highlight lack of upfront price transparency or feeling they ended up paying high mark-ups.

• Website doesn’t always list full fee breakdowns or premium mark-ups for certain coins.

• If you have a smaller balance (~$10k-$20k) you should ask how their pricing compares on standard bullion bars vs coins.

My personal take

If I were rolling over a moderate IRA (~$10k-$50k) and wanted solid support, I’d pick AHG, especially because they work well with newer investors and have high review scores. If I were quite experienced or funding $100k+, I’d still use them but push hard on selecting standard bullion (not collectible coins) and demand a documented quote showing purchase cost, markup, storage, and planned hold-costs.

Quick checklist for your first call

1. Ask for a single document showing all fees: application/setup + annual custodian + storage + shipping/insurance + buyback spread.

2. Confirm whether the coins you’ll buy are IRA-eligible bullion (e.g., 1-ounce gold bars) not high-premium collectibles.

3. Confirm storage provider(s) and whether metals will be segregated or pooled.

4. Get the buyback policy: if you sell back, what fee/spread applies and what timeline.

4. Birch Gold Group

My Experience & Key Details

• I reached out to Birch for fee clarity and they provided a detailed sheet. Minimum investment I observed: ~$10,000.

• Fee structure I found: Setup fee ~$50, wire fee ~$30, annual storage & insurance ~$100, annual management fee ~$100.

• Storage: Options with major depositories; they allow you to choose between custodians, which adds flexibility. 
  Pros

• Very transparent with fees (which builds trust).

• Good for investors who like to know exactly what they’re paying.
  Cons

• With lower minimums + flat fees, it may make less sense for very large balances (though still valid).
  My verdict
  If fee clarity and predictable service matter to you, Birch is a very smart pick. If you’re going super big, you may still compare cost per % of assets.

Birch Gold Group Reviews & Ratings (Updated November 2025)

BBB (Better Business Bureau) A+ Accredited

• Accredited since 08/24/2005. (bbb.org)

• Recent complaint volume: moderate for the category, with clear resolutions in most cases.

• What I looked for: hidden charges after the fact, unreturned calls post-funding

• What I observed: few systemic issues; many resolved complaints where Birch responded with explanation and next steps.

Trustpilot / Google Reviews ~4.5 to ~4.8 stars

• Trustpilot: ~4.6 out of 5 based on 200+ verified reviews.

• Google Reviews: 4.7 to 4.8 average from hundreds of client comments.

• What stood out: users repeatedly mention “fee sheet was exactly what I got” and “I didn’t feel pushed into expensive coins.”

  “Birch pulled back the curtain on cost, shipment, storage—no surprises.”

• Why it matters: when all the jargon is removed, you want to say that’s exactly what they told me on the call. Birch reports match that.

What isn’t perfect (and what to watch)

• Minimums: While they advertise $10,000 minimum, some internal promos/upsells still reflect higher expected spend, ask current minimum before you commit.

• Large-balance cost efficiency: For very high rollovers, flat annuals may cost more than percentage-based models used by competitors; if your balance is $500k+, you may want to model out cost per year.

• Website functionality: Some users found the “live pricing” charts useful but say the actual quote still came via rep; treat the online tools as estimates.

My personal take

If I were opening a Gold IRA and felt strongly about knowing exactly what I will pay each year (and what I’ll pay when I exit), Birch is one of my top picks. I’d still run my regular checklist (buyback formula + storage type + vault location), but with Birch you start from a position of clarity rather than “what will they surprise me with?”

Quick checklist for your first call

1. Get a single PDF showing all recurring costs: custodian admin, storage, insurance, shipping/insurance, wire setup, etc.

2. Ask whether storage is segregated or pooled, and what that cost difference is.

3. Confirm which vault(s) they work with (e.g., Delaware, Brink’s, Texas) and if your metals will remain your name.

4. Get the documented buyback policy: what you’ll get if you liquidate, when, and what fees apply.

5) Noble Gold Investments

My Experience & Key Details

I called Noble Gold twice, once as a “brand-new investor” and once asking nerdy fee questions. The rep was patient, not pushy, and walked me through Texas storage and their buyback. They do work with mainstream custodians and commonly use IDS (Dallas) or Delaware for vaulting, with segregated options if you want your exact bars/coins kept apart.

Minimum investment I saw in tables: often shown between $10k-$20k depending on the reviewer. Expect this to vary with promotions and storage choice.

• Fees (what I was quoted/seen in reviews): a flat annual setup/admin plus storage, with segregated storage typically higher than pooled. Some summaries list admin around $80 and storage in the $150 range (segregated). Always get the all-in number in writing.

• Storage: IDS (Texas/Dallas) and Delaware Depository are common placements; segregated available.

• Custodians: Equity Institutional / New Direction (NDTCO) show up frequently in partner lists.

Pros

• Texas storage option (many clients like keeping assets stateside and away from coasts).

• Segregated storage available for “my bars are my bars” peace of mind.

Cons

• You’ll see chatter online about markups on certain coins and wide buy/sell spreads, this is not unique to Noble, but you should still insist on bullion quotes in writing, plus the buyback formula before you fund.

My verdict
If you want Texas vaulting + hand-holding without getting trapped in collectible-coin pitches, Noble is solid, just secure a written quote with line-item markups and the buyback math before you roll. That single email saves future headaches.

BBB (Better Business Bureau) A+ Accredited

• Noble Gold holds an A+ rating with the BBB, with few unresolved complaints listed.

• I looked for patterns of client complaints about rollover delays or hidden fees; none stood out in volume.

• What it means: a strong operational base + lower risk of systemic surprises.

Trustpilot / Google Reviews  High 4.8 4.9 Averages

• On Trustpilot, as of late 2025, they show ~4.9/5 across 700+ verified reviews.

• On Google / aggregated review platforms, many clients praise the rep they dealt with, the clarity of storage options, and helpful rollover guidance.

• What stood out:

• “The rollover process was easy to manage and track. Communication throughout the process was excellent and felt comfortable.” 
  “Very friendly and helpful throughout the process… we feel good about choosing Noble Gold.”

• Why it matters: when you’re doing something new (Gold IRA), you care just as much about who you’re talking to as which vault you pick. These reviews suggest Noble has strength there.

Storage & Service Comments Noteworthy

• A frequent positive: clients appreciate the Texas (IDS) + Delaware vault options (including segregated storage).

• Some reviewers mention setup took a little longer when rollovers involved 401(k) ? IRA and metal selection. That’s normal and not a red flag, just go in knowing there are two moving parts.

• The “no pressure” tone shows up a lot: “They explained all the metals and answered every question—even the silly ones.”

• What Isn’t Perfect (and what you should ask)

• Because their service quality is high, the cost side deserves attention. Premiums (markup above spot) and buy-back spread aren’t always front-and-centre on the website.

• Example: Some reviews call out hidden premium mark-ups on certain rare coins. This is common industry-wide but your job is to get the numbers in writing.

• The bifurcation (Texas vs Delaware, segregated vs pooled) means costs vary. When I asked, the rep said “let me send you the segregated quote vs pooled quote now”, do the same.

My Personal Take

If I were rolling over a mid-sized IRA (say $20k-$100k) and I valued: a real human walk-through, Texas vault choice, and a firm that doesn’t lean hard on “doom-scenario” marketing, Noble Gold would be in my top-2. If I were doing a large portfolio ($250k+) I might still include them in the mix but compare premiums and buy-back spreads carefully.

Quick Investor Checklist (for your first call)

1. Ask for a one-page all-in quote: setup fees + annual custodian/admin + storage segregated/pool + shipping/insurance + premium above spot.

2. Confirm storage vault: Texas (IDS) vs Delaware, ask which you will end up with in your case.

3. Get the buy-back formula: “If I need to liquidate in 3 yrs, what do you buy back, what’s the spread?”

4. Confirm you’re buying IRA-eligible bullion (bars or coins with low premium) and not high-premium rare coins unless you accept the risk/spread.

6) Orion Metal Exchange

My Experience & Key Details

I tested Orion’s “call the in-house IRA desk and let them do the heavy lifting” promise. The IRA team actually compared custodians/depositories with me on the phone, then matched me to a low-cost combo. Their pitch emphasizes broad custodian/depository access and an easy buyback. Ratings pages are consistently positive.

Focus: Gold IRA service with help choosing the custodian + depository pair, plus non-IRA cash sales if you want home delivery. (They highlight insured shipping and tracking.)

• Buyback: Phone-based liquidation, typically 3–5 business days to cash settlement per reviews/guides. Get the spread disclosed up front.

• Education/tools: price charts, news posts, and phone guidance (useful if you’re comparing metals).

• Ratings snapshot: Strong BBB/Consumer sites; third-party summaries regularly note A+ BBB and high Trustpilot/ConsumerAffairs scores.

Pros

• Concierge IRA setup: they really do quarterback the custodian + depository pairing.

• Clear, human phone support when you need to move fast.

Cons

• Website fee tables are thin. You’ll need to get a written, all-in quote (admin + storage + shipping).

My verdict
If you value white-glove IRA setup and want someone to shop custodian/depository combos for you, Orion is a good experience. Just like with every dealer, lock down fees and the exact buyback formula in writing before wiring.

BBB (Better Business Bureau) A+ Accredited

• Orion is accredited and holds an A+ rating on BBB.

• The business profile shows relatively low complaint volume and timely responses.

• What I looked for: unresolved complaints, patterns of “rolled funds but no metals” or “hidden fees”

• What I observed: few large-scale red flags; the company appears to respond when issues arise

Trustpilot & Other Review Platforms  ~4.9/5 Range

• On Trustpilot: 4.9/5 average based on ~215 reviews.

• On BBB “Reviews” section: average ~4.96/5 for customer reviews.

• What stood out: multiple reviews by first-time buyers saying “They walked me through the rollover and storage, no pressure.”

“Transferred my TSP account … Jacob made the process less worrisome and helped put my mind at ease.” (Jan 15 2025)

• Why it matters: Good service is only half the battle—when you’re new to precious metals IRAs, how the company treats you during setup matters a lot.

What Isn’t Perfect (and what you should ask)

• While they emphasise “transparent online pricing”, I found reviewers saying the website still lacks full fee breakdowns for IRA setup/storage.

• Some analysis pointed out that their promotions (for example, low-minimum offers) come with conditions (e.g., large balances) that are less visible in marketing.

• If you go with Orion, ask directly: “What is your one-page all-in fee sheet (setup + custodian admin + storage + shipping)?” and “What is your buyback policy exactly?”

My Personal Take

If I were starting a gold IRA with a moderate budget and wanted a company that’s easier to access and still reputable, Orion would be high on my list. The service and ratings are strong. If I were doing a very large rollover I might still compare with ultra-premium firms, but for smaller to mid-size amounts this could be a smart pick.

Quick Checklist for Your Call

1. Ask for a single PDF quote showing all fees (setup, annual admin, storage, insurance/shipping).

2. Confirm storage type (segregated vs pooled) and which depository they’ll use for your metals.

3. Get the buyback policy: when you sell, what’s the spread, what’s the timeline?

4. Ask “What is your minimum to qualify for the lowest fee/promo tier?” (Orion promo minimums vary).

5. Confirm you are purchasing IRA-eligible bullion (bars or coins with standard premiums, not rare numismatics) if that is your preference.

7) JM Bullion (via IRA Partner)

My Experience & Key Details

JM Bullion is a retail powerhouse with an IRA lane powered by a preferred custodian. When I walked through their IRA page, they routed me to New Direction Trust Company (NDTCO) as the custodian. You buy IRA-eligible bullion from JM, the custodian holds title, and the metals go to an IRS-approved depository.

• Custodian: New Direction Trust Company (NDTCO) is the listed “preferred custodian.” You can usually use others, but NDTCO is the turnkey route on their site. : Standard IRA depositories (e.g., Delaware, Brink’s, IDS) depending on custodian placement, ask JM/NDTCO which vault they’ll use for your account.

• What I saw from real buyers (recent chatter): during surges/holidays, fulfillment can run a week+; outside of peaks, experiences are often fast and clean. Manage expectations if you’re ordering on a price spike. (This is normal across the big dealers.)

• Tip: If your delivery timing is tight, ask about ship SLAs and payment-clearing windows (eCheck vs wire vs card can change dispatch timing).

Pros

• Huge bullion catalog and established IRA funnel via NDTCO.

• Competitive pricing on common bullion; easy to comparison-shop on the site.

Cons

• Two-hop support (dealer + custodian) means fee clarity can be split across parties, get one consolidated sheet that lists custodian fees, storage, and JM order costs together.

My verdict
JM is a convenient “one-brand” path if you want IRA-eligible bullion selection plus a known custodian pipeline. In busy markets, build in time for fulfillment and confirm the vault location + all recurring fees before you fund.

Quick buyer’s checklist (use this for every company)

• Always get these in writing before funding: one-page fee sheet (setup, admin, storage, shipping, spreads), buyback formula, and depository + storage type (segregated vs non-seg).

• Bullion only for IRAs: stick to widely traded coins/bars to minimize spreads later.

• Custodian choice matters: compare their annual admin + transaction fees and service speed; don’t just accept the “default.”

• Storage: segregated costs more, but it’s your inventory tag—decide if that peace of mind is worth the extra per year.

Fees: what I actually see investors pay

• Custodian annual: ~$75–$125 (varies by custodian and balance tier)

• Storage/insurance: ~$100–$200/yr, more for segregated

• Setup / wire / account opening: $0–$80 one-time typical

• Shipping & insurance (cash orders): usually included or clearly stated

Pro tip: flat annuals make more sense as your balance grows. Percentage-of-assets fees punish success.

BBB (Better Business Bureau)  A+ Rating

• JM Bullion holds an A+ rating with BBB and is widely recognized in the bullion retail space

• The business profile shows many positive reviews and relatively low volume of unresolved complaints for a dealer of their size.

• Why this matters: The dealer side of the business is strong, and any IRA component inherits that track record good sign.

Review Platforms & Editor Ratings

• On their site they display 4.8/5 average across 400,000+ reviews in late 2025.

• On independent comparison sites:

  • Investopedia called JM Bullion “Best Gold IRA Best for Product Selection” and praised its no-account-minimum and broad inventory. Investopedia

  • On Forbes Advisor and similar lists they show JM Bullion as “Best for Diverse Metal Selection.”

  • What stands out: Investors mention “shopping exact bars/coins I want” and “low hurdle to start the IRA” as key benefits.

What Isn’t Perfect (and what you must ask)

• Because JM acts as dealer + IRA partner via custodian, fee clarity can get split, metal premium + dealer spread + custodian/admin/storage. One review flagged “shipping took longer during peak season.”

• While the “no minimum” is great, the IRA setup still has custodian/admin fees (even if low), and you may need to ensure your metal selection is IRA-approved.

• Key questions to ask: “Which custodian are you using for the IRA?” “What depository will hold the metals?” “What is the total all-in fee for my scenario?”

My Personal Take

If I had $10k-$50k and prioritized choice of coins/bars + low entry friction, I’d pick JM Bullion. If I’m doing $100k+ and want full white-glove IRA rollover experience (paperwork, hand-holding, custom vaulting), I might compare with firms that bundle more personal service. But for many investors, JM hits the “sweet spot” of selection + cost.

Quick Call Checklist

1. Ask for the one-page quote: dealer premium + custodian setup + annual storage + shipping/insurance.

2. Confirm which custodian they’ll use for your IRA (e.g., New Direction Trust Company or another).

3. Confirm the depository/vault where your metals will live and whether it’s segregated vs pooled.

4. Confirm your purchased metals are IRA-eligible bullion (bars/coins accepted under IRS rules).

5. Optionally ask about bulk/volume discount or military/investor loyalty discount since JM lists those benefits.

Custodians, what changes for you
Service speed for transfers, the way they show positions on statements, and the ticket fee on trades. I ask three things,
1, what is the annual admin,
2, do you charge per transaction,
3, how fast do you post buy and sell orders.
Names you will hear a lot, Equity Trust, STRATA, New Direction, GoldStar. None of them decide your premiums, they keep records and hold title for your IRA. Pick the one your dealer actually works well with, that cuts down on friction.

Vaults, what I look for
Third-party, insured, audited. Delaware Depository, Brink’s, IDS show up a lot. Pooled is cheaper and fine for most, segregated costs more and puts your bars in their own bin with your tag. Compliance is the same either way. I choose the city first for peace of mind, then the storage type for my budget.

RMDs with metal, how it actually works
When you hit required distributions, the custodian can sell enough ounces to raise the cash, or ship you coins in kind. Cash is simple on taxes, coins in kind means the day’s fair value gets reported. I ask my custodian for both numbers before year-end, then pick the lane with my tax pro.

Small balance options, smart path if you are under $5k

Only two to five thousand to start

• Begin with gold or broad metals ETFs or a vaulted savings program

• Grow to a ten to twenty five thousand target, then convert to a physical IRA

• Still use my call script now, the learning pays off later

Under 5,000, my no-stress path
1, learn the call script now,
2. Use a vaulted savings plan or a broad metals ETF while you build,
3, stack to 10,000 to 25,000,
4, convert to a physical IRA when fees make sense,
5, stay with bullion, not collectibles, you want tight spreads.

Buyback matrix: how you actually get your cash back

Storage: Segregated vs Non-Segregated

• Segregated = your bars/coins sit in their own bin with your name on it;
• non-segregated = still insured and tracked, but pooled by type and swapped like-for-like on distribution. If you’re picky about serials, pay for segregated.
• If you just want clean compliance and lower costs, pooled is fine.

Storage in one clean sentence:
Segregated means your bars sit in their own bin with your tag, pooled means like for like inventory with audits and insurance, if you want your exact serials pay for segregated, if you want lower carrying cost pooled is fine.

(Numbers are typical 2025 retail IRA ranges across verified client reports and review audits — use them as estimates until you gather your own confirmed invoices.)

My 2025 Note on Premiums
I’ve watched gold prices move minute to minute, and dealer markups move right with them. In quiet markets, I’ve seen one-ounce bars sell for just a few bucks over spot, blink and that promo’s gone. Coins are a different story. American Gold Eagles and Maples almost always carry a fatter spread, often in the 7 to 10 percent range when demand heats up.

Whatever you do, get it all in writing. Ask for a single quote that shows the premium above spot, the custodian and storage fees, shipping or insurance, and the buyback formula they’ll use if you ever decide to sell. It’s the fastest way to tell who’s serious and who’s just talking smooth.

How I sanity-check a quote in 60 seconds
Spot shows 2,100, my rep quotes American Gold Eagles at 2,300.
Math, 2,300 minus 2,100 equals 200 premium, 200 divided by 2,100 equals 0.095, call it 9.5 percent.
Storage 125 a year, custodian 100 a year, that is 225 total carry.
If I buy ten coins, 2,000 total premium, 225 carry, I write those numbers on the invoice and keep them in my folder.
If the spread on buyback is 3 to 5 percent, I note it next to today’s spot so I know my round-trip cost.

Who should open a Gold IRA (and who shouldn’t)

• Good fit: you want a 5–10% hedge inside tax-advantaged space, prefer tangible assets, and you understand metals don’t throw off yield.

• Not ideal: you want fast growth, you hate paying any annual fees, or you plan to day-trade spot moves. This is ballast, not a moonshot.

What is a Gold IRA, in plain English

It’s a self-directed IRA that holds IRS-approved bullion instead of just paper. A qualified custodian owns title for the IRA, your metals live at an approved depository, and you keep the tax benefits. No home storage for IRA metals, that’s a fast way to create a taxable distribution.

Why I keep metals in the mix

Gold doesn’t care about earnings calls. It won’t pay a dividend, but it won’t implode on a rumor either. In my plans, metals are ballast. Five to ten percent is a common slice for people who want a hedge without turning portfolios into museums.

Step-by-Step: opening the account

1. Application, ID, beneficiary.

2. Fund by transfer or rollover, trustee-to-trustee keeps you safe.

3. Pick bullion that is IRA-eligible purity.

4. Choose storage, pooled for lower cost, segregated if you want “my bars are my bars.”

5. Get it in writing, one-page fees + buyback formula + vault location.

One-line storage explainer you can quote:
Segregated storage keeps your bars in their own bin, non-segregated is pooled by type and you get like-for-like on distribution, both are insured and audited.

Companies I Approach With Caution (and why)

I include this because it’s honest and helps readers avoid landmines. Any firm that:

• pushes high-markup collectibles for IRAs,

• hides fee schedules until the last page, or

• dodges direct questions on storage and buyback,
  …goes on my personal “ask tougher questions” list. If you ever feel rushed, stop the call. Metals should slow your heartbeat, not raise it.

Print this, my call script that smokes out hidden costs

• Email me your one page all-in fee sheet today, admin, storage, shipping, markup

• Confirm custodian name and vault city, pooled or segregated, cost difference

• Send your buyback math in writing, how you set price and timeline to cash

• Confirm my exact bullion list is IRA eligible purity

• Who is my single specialist after funding, direct email and direct phone

• Share a sample invoice from a recent order of similar size

• Tell me your response time SLA for emails and calls

• How do you handle RMDs when metal is in the IRA

• If I transfer out, what steps and fees apply

Compliance, in plain English

• IRA metals must be held by a qualified custodian at an approved depository

• Home storage for IRA metals can trigger a taxable distribution

• Purity rules for IRA bullion, gold 0.995 plus, silver 0.999 plus, platinum or palladium 0.9995 plus

• Trustee to trustee transfers avoid the 60 day rollover trap

Fresh Gold IRA FAQs my readers actually ask

Can I hold American Eagle coins in a Gold IRA
Yes, gold Eagles are accepted even though they are 0.9167 purity, they are a specific exception in the code.

What happens when I need to take RMDs
The custodian can sell enough ounces to raise cash, or distribute coins in kind, talk to your tax pro about how each choice is reported.

Are shipping and insurance included for IRA metals
Many firms include it inside the program price, get it in writing on your fee sheet.

Can I choose the exact vault city
Often yes, Delaware is common, Dallas and Las Vegas also show up, ask for the list and pick what feels right.

How fast can I liquidate and get cash
Three to five business days is normal once your sell ticket is set, heavy seasons can add a day.

Do segregated bins change my future resale price
No, it is about custody preference, not resale. The spread you pay and the spread you receive are what matter.

What purity is IRA-eligible?
Gold 0.995+, Silver 0.999+, Platinum/Palladium 0.9995+ (exceptions for specific sovereign coins).

Home storage for a Gold IRA… legal?
No. IRS wants a qualified custodian and approved depository for IRA metals.

Numismatic coins in an IRA… smart?
Not for most folks. IRAs are for bullion. Keep collectibles (and their fat markups) out of tax-advantaged space.

Rollover vs transfer: what’s safer?
Trustee-to-trustee transfer avoids the 60-day clock and keeps you out of trouble.

Proceed with caution, red flags that end the call

• No fee sheet by email

• Pressure lines like “today only”

• Pushing proofs or rare coins into an IRA

• Vague answers on buyback or storage

What to do next, simple flow

1. Use the chooser to pick two fits

2. Run my call script with both

3. Collect two one page fee sheets and two buyback emails

4. Pick the calmest team with the cleanest math

5. Fund by trustee to trustee and keep a copy of everything

Artifacts, the receipts I keep on file

For each company I collect and keep

• Redacted invoice or order confirmation

• Redacted custodian statement with positions

• Buyback policy email with the pricing math

• Name and direct contact of my specialist

• A short note on promised versus delivered timing

My Final Verdict (2025 Update)

After another year of watching this industry up close, calling reps, checking quotes, and seeing how clients get treated after they fund, my takeaway hasn’t really changed.

The names and promos shift, but behavior doesn’t.

Augusta still acts like grown-ups. They talk slow, explain everything, and send paperwork that actually makes sense. If I were moving serious retirement money today, they’d still be my pick.

Goldco is great for beginners. The support team is patient, the education is strong, and they’ll guide you through every signature. Just make sure you get the costs in writing.

American Hartford Gold keeps the door open for smaller investors. I’ve seen people start here with ten or fifteen grand and learn the ropes safely.

Birch Gold Group is the “numbers guy.” They’ll show you every fee up front, which makes it easy to trust what you’re signing.

Noble Gold has that calm, Texas tone. No scare talk, no rush, just clear vault options and polite support.

Orion and JM Bullion fill in the rest. They’re great for smaller or more hands-on investors who want flexibility without fuss.

Here’s what I tell friends who ask me about Gold IRAs:
Don’t chase promos. Don’t fall for “today-only” sales scripts.

Pick the firm that answers your email at 9 p.m. with a straight answer.

Gold isn’t about getting rich fast, it’s about sleeping well when markets go crazy.

If that’s what you want, these firms can help. Just get everything in writing, read it twice, and keep your receipts. That’s how you stay safe, and win quietly, in this space.