What are the steps to invest in precious metals?
A self-directed IRA (SDIRA) allows you to invest in physical precious metals as part of your retirement strategy. Understanding the process upfront can help ensure a smooth investment experience.
To see examples of IRA-allowable gold, silver, platinum, and palladium coins and bullion, please visit our IRA Allowable Precious Metals page.
Quick Links: (1) Open & fund | (2) Choose a dealer | (3) Direct your investment | Resources
Step 1: Open and fund
To open an IRA, visit our Get Started page. During the application, you will select your account type and fund your IRA. Your account must have sufficient funds to cover:
- Annual IRA fee
- Precious metals depository storage fee
- Purchase price of the metals
- Any applicable processing fees
(See STRATA’s IRA Fee Schedule for current rates.)
Funding timelines vary depending on the method used and the processing time of external providers. Once STRATA receives your funds, they typically post to your account within 2–3 business days.
Quick Links: (1) Open & fund | (2) Choose a dealer | (3) Direct your investment | Resources
Step 2: Choose your precious metals dealer
STRATA does not buy, sell, or exchange precious metals. You will work directly with a dealer of your choice to:
- Select the metals you want to purchase
- Negotiate pricing
- Place your order
Important considerations:
- STRATA does not evaluate dealers or investments
- You are responsible for conducting your own due diligence
- Regulatory oversight of dealers may be limited
If your dealer has not worked with STRATA before, they must submit a Precious Metals Dealer Representation Letter.
Quick Links: (1) Open & fund | (2) Choose a dealer | (3) Direct your investment | Resources
Step 3: Direct your investment
Once your IRA is open, funded, and you’ve selected a dealer, you are ready to submit your investment instructions.
- Complete the Investment Direction and Disclosures - Precious Metals form, which will also prompt you to select your approved depository. You will need to provide:
- Dealer invoice: Provide a copy of the dealer invoice, which must be itemized to show the type, quantity, and price of the precious metals purchased.
- Dealer agreement — Provide a copy of the completed client/dealer agreement.
STRATA will:
- Send payment to the dealer
- Provide instructions for delivery to the approved depository
Quick Links: (1) Open & fund | (2) Choose a dealer | (3) Direct your investment | Resources
Resources:
Step-by-step guide: Download STRATA's Precious Metals Investment Checklist for a guided, streamlined investing experience.