How Do I Request an In-Kind Distribution?

Learn about STRATA's in-kind processes, what forms are needed, general processing times to expect, and other helpful tips.

An in-kind distribution is a transaction in which the IRA accountholder withdraws all or a portion of a non-cash asset, typically held in shares or units, from their IRA. Common non-cash assets that may be withdrawn from an IRA as an in-kind distribution include precious metals, real estate, and other illiquid assets.

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In-Kind Distribution Process

To request an in-kind distribution from your STRATA IRA, simply complete the appropriate IRA distribution request form. Be sure to complete each section of the form that applies to your request in order to avoid processing delays.

For Cash and Non-Precious Metal Assets:

For Cash and Precious Metals:

Make sure to include your email on any distribution request to receive tracking information or other important updates (if applicable). 

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How Long? 

  • Non-Precious Metal Assets - The delivery time for an in-kind distribution request is generally 3-10 business days. This time frame may vary based on the delivery method you selected and the asset type that is being distributed.
  • Precious Metal Assets -  Once STRATA has the completed distribution form, we will instruct the depository to move the metals from your IRA depository. Expect up to 5 business days for the depository to create a label, to ship out your material.  

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Helpful Tips

  • Precious Metals - STRATA will work with your designated depository to coordinate the shipping of your precious metals. When shipping precious metals in-kind, there may be shipping fees associated with the request. STRATA will contact you to collect all associated transaction fees. Once the transaction fees are collected, you will receive an email the next business day from STRATA that discusses your next steps, and then STRATA will instruct the designated depository to ship the precious metals per your instructions. Once received, please review the shipment and notify STRATA within 24 hours of any discrepancies or issues with the shipment.  
  • Real Estate - Upon receipt, STRATA will process your request within 48 hours. Once completed, STRATA will mail the official change of ownership documents to you per your instructions. Please work with the appropriate parties to change the ownership of the property to you directly. If you do not receive the change of ownership documentation within 10 business days, please contact STRATA for assistance. 
  • Other Illiquid Assets - Upon receipt, STRATA will process your request within 48 hours. Once completed, STRATA will mail the official change of ownership documents to you per your instructions. Please work with the investment issuer to change the ownership of the asset. If you do not receive the change of ownership documentation within 10 business days, please contact STRATA for assistance.  
  • RMDs  - RMD rules allow you to aggregate your RMDs from your IRAs and take the total amount from one account. If you have one IRA that is illiquid you could simply take the RMD for that account from another IRA. Remember, there are limits here. You cannot satisfy your RMD for your IRA from a workplace plan or a Roth IRA. To avoid last-minute mistakes and stiff IRS penalties, it is important to plan ahead. Talk to your financial advisor or tax attorney to understand how to fulfill your RMD requirements and what is best for your situation.

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Expedite Distribution Requests – Update Your Contact Information Promptly

Whether you've recently changed residences or need to revise any contact information, keeping us informed is crucial for seamless account management and security. Your contact details and address information are utilized to confirm transactions and validate the authenticity of service requests. If there's a discrepancy between your contact information on file, processing delays may occur as we take extra steps to verify the information.

To update your contact information, simply fill out our Change of Address form. Once submitted, we'll swiftly process your request and notify you once the changes are finalized. 

Connect with Client Services

Visit our RMD or Distribution FAQ page for more information or ask us anything!  A member of our customer support team is ready to help - submit a request to our Client Services Team online, chat with us through our website, book a meeting at a time convenient for you, or call us directly at 866-860-9765, 8 am - 5:30 pm Central Time, Monday-Friday.