Disclosure: The owners of this website may receive a compensation from companies featured in this article. Our analysis is independent but this is not a financial advice article. Refer to our Advertising Disclosure for more information.
Investing in gold with a gold ira is a popular option for investors wanting to diversify their portfolio, or for people approaching retirement. It is still seen as a good hedge against inflation by many as it often increases in value, while the purchasing power of the the dollar declines. Many investors are slowly having to face the fact that the current economy is having a huge impact on their investment and retirement portfolios.
How to Buy Gold?
Should you continue to take more investment risks, or look at additional options to diversify your current investment or retirement portfolio? If gold is used as a hedge against inflation, or as part of a diversification strategy, many experts have suggested that investing in gold is an important investment strategy in the current economy. In fact, Investment Banker, Former CIA and Pentagon Advisor, and author of the book, The New Case for Gold, James Rickards, has recommended that investors should invest in gold to diversify their portfolio.
There are numerous providers offering gold IRA services to help investors purchase gold. We have analyzed and selected of four of the leading companies on the market based on criteria such as price transparency and fees; their experience with precious metals and gold IRAs; customer support and satisfaction; educational resources; and the ease of opening an account to purchase gold.
Our Top Gold IRA Company Recommendations
- Noble Gold Investments: Best for Education
- Birch Gold Group: Best for Hard Asset IRAs
Augusta Precious Metals
Best for Transparent Pricing
Augusta is a family-owned precious metal IRA service provider founded in 2012. The company offers physical gold as well as other precious metals IRAs at incredibly competitive prices. They have been consistently ranked among the best gold IRA companies on the market for their exemplary track record, customer satisfaction, and performance.
The family-owned gold IRA company believes strongly that investing is not a sprint but a marathon. They have a well-trained team of experts that are dedicated to helping customers achieve their financial goals.
What does Augusta Precious Metals offer?
Augusta offers a wide range of services to help customers diversify their investments with self-directed ira’s and precious metal ira’s. The company also helps investors arrange for custodians, shipping, and storage services where your gold will be secure and safe.
The company offerings include:
Physical Gold and Silver IRA
If you are looking to add precious metals – especially gold and silver to your retirement account, Augusta Precious Metals can help you thanks to its wide range of bars and coins.
Augusta Offers Gold and Silver coins:
- American Eagle
- American Buffalo
- Canadian Maple Leaf
- Canadian Soaring Eagle
Physical Gold and Silver Cash Purchases
For anyone interested in taking possession of gold or silver outside an IRA, this company also offers cash purchases. The company has a variety of bars, rounds, coins as well as storage options to meet any situational or budgetary needs.
Augusta is among the few precious metal IRA companies that give customers the option to select their storage and custodian provider, thus giving you more autonomy over your portfolio. However, the company will suggest a preferred storage and custodian – normally Delaware and Equity to their customers.
How to setup a gold IRA with Augusta Precious Metals
Setting up an account with Augusta is very easy and involves just three steps as highlighted below:
- Create your new IRA account: The first step is creating a new IRA with the company’s preferred self-directed IRA custodian.
- Fund your IRA account: Next, fund your IRA account with the money from your existing retirement account.
- Purchase precious metal: Once you have funded your account, you can now select and order your silver or gold via Augusta’s order desk.
What Can You Buy with Augusta Precious Metals?
Here are the precious metal coins that you can buy with your Augusta Precious Metals IRA:
- American Eagle Proofs (gold)
- American Eagle (gold)
- Gold Canadian Eagle
- Canadian Maple Leaf (gold)
- Australian Striped Marlin (gold)
- American Buffalo (gold)
- Canadian Silver Eagle with Nest
- Canadian Silver Soaring Eagle
- Canadian Silver Maple Leaf
- American Silver Eagle
Storage Facilities
Augusta Precious Metals uses Delaware Depository to store customers’ gold or silver. This storage facility is known for being the best secured private depository in the world.
Pros and Cons of Augusta Precious Metals
Pros
- You can buy gold outside an IRA for your own physical storage
- Insured physical shipping
- Variety of coins on offer
- Coins grading
- Educational materials
- High rating from BCA
- Fast account opening procedures
- Transparent pricing
Cons
- High minimum investment threshold
- They don’t offer platinum and palladium coins
Frequently Asked Questions
Q: How can I verify that Augusta Precious Metals is trustworthy?
A: Augusta is one of the most reputable gold IRA companies, with an A-plus rating with BBB, AAA rating with BCA, and is part of Ethics.net
Q: How long has Augusta been in operation?
A: Augusta was founded in January 2012 with the aim of educating and empowering Americans to diversify their retirement portfolio.
Q: How long does it take for my gold to be delivered?
A: Once you order your precious metals, it will take between 7 and 10 business days to complete the process and to be shipped to your choice of storage, but you should expect extra wait times due to inevitable disruptions.
Fees including minimum investment
Augusta has a minimum investment of $50,000 for non-IRA purchases and IRA purchases. In addition to that, an annual charge is applicable of $180, but we recommend calling Augusta representatives to ask about fee waivers. There is no maximum order limit.
Conclusion
Augusta stands out among the competition for its transparent and competitive pricing structure. There are no hidden fees and the company will not reveal their bid and they provide continual updates on ongoing transactions. Additionally, Augusta also works with a number of reliable custodians such as Gold Star Trust Company, Kingdom Trust, and Equity Trust.
Noble Gold Investments
Best for Education
Noble Gold Investments specializes in providing investors and people reviewing their retirement savings options with a secure and trusted platform to purchase gold and other precious metals. Their approach to investing is unique as they focus on educating their clients about the benefits of including precious metals in their investment portfolio. In this review, we will take a closer look at Noble Gold Investments and see why they are a top choice for many investors.
What does Noble Gold Investments offer?
Noble Gold Investments provides a variety of services to meet the different demands of its clientele.
The company offerings include:
Physical Gold and Silver IRA
Noble help clients set up self-directed Individual Retirement Accounts or IRAs, that specialize in precious metals. Investors can now add physical precious metals in their retirement portfolios.
Noble Gold and Silver coins:
The company provides a platform for individuals to purchase gold and silver coins. These coins are often sourced from reputable mints and can be a tangible asset for investors. They include but not limited to:
- 1oz Highland Mint Silver Round
- American Silver Eagle Coins
- Australian Silver Kangaroo Coin
- 1kg Australian Silver Coin
- Canadian Gold Maple Leaf
- American Gold Eagle Proof Coins
- Austrian Gold Philharmonic Coins
Precious Metals Bullion:
Noble Gold Investments may offer various forms of precious metals bullion, including gold bars and silver bars. Bullion means when silver or gold is in bulk before it is coined or valued by its weight.
Educational Resources:
The company provides educational materials and information to assist investors in making educated decisions about precious metals investments. This may include articles, guides, and other materials related to the precious metals market.
Storage Options:
Noble Gold Investments provides safe storage for precious metals obtained from them. This is particularly relevant for investors who prefer not to store physical metals at home.
Physical Gold and Silver Cash Purchases:
Noble Gold Investments presents clients with a variety of investment options for both gold and silver. They have traditional options like IRAs and 401(k)s, as well as the option to purchase physical gold and silver directly from them. This means that you can buy actual coins or bars made of gold and silver, instead of just investing in their value on paper.
By paying cash, you have more control over your purchase and can tailor it to fit your financial goals and needs.
It is important to note that physical purchases may incur additional charges such as storage and insurance. However, Noble Gold Investments prides itself on transparency and will work with you to find the best option for your individual situation.
How to setup a gold IRA with Augusta Precious Metals
The process of setting up a gold IRA with Noble Gold Investments is straightforward and hassle-free. Here’s a step-by-step guide:
Step #1: Contact Noble Gold
The first step is to request a gold guide or get in touch with their team through their website or by phone. Someone from the company will be assigned to you as an assistant throughout the process.
Step #2: Discuss Your Goals
During the initial consultation, your account executive will ask about your financial goals and objectives. This is important as it allows the company to provide you with a personalized investment package according to your needs.
Step #3: Review Eligibility
Before proceeding, they will also review your eligibility for a gold IRA. This will depend on your age, employment status, and type of retirement account.
Step #4: Fund Your Account
The next step is to fund your IRA using a direct transfer or rollover from another retirement account. Noble Gold will handle all the paperwork and ensure a smooth process.
Step #5: Choose Your Metals
An area that clients like about Noble Gold Investments is their broad range of precious metals to choose from, which includes palladium and platinum in addition to the usual gold and silver. Your account executive can provide guidance on which metals may be best for your portfolio.
Step #6: Storage
Noble Gold works with only the most trusted and secure storage facilities to ensure your precious metals are always safe.
Step #7: Manage Your Account
Once everything is completed, you will receive regular updates from Noble Gold regarding the performance of your portfolio. Noble Gold’s team is always accessible to answer inquiries and offer continuing assistance.
What Can You Buy with Noble Gold Investments?
Noble Gold Investments has a wide selection of precious metal coins that can be purchased with your Metals IRA. These are some examples:
Gold Coins:
• American Gold Eagle
• Canadian Gold Maple Leaf
• South African Gold Krugerrand
Silver Coins:
• American Silver Eagle
• Austrian Silver Philharmonic
• Canadian Silver Maple Leaf
Pros and Cons of Noble Gold Investments
Pros
- Strong reputation
- Variety of options
- Low investment minimum
- Easy process
- Safe and secure Storage options
Cons
- Limited investment options
- Potential risks
- Limited availability
Frequently Asked Questions
Q: Who is Noble Gold?
A: Noble Gold is a precious metals investment company that specializes in the buying and selling of precious metals in the form of coins and bars. They specialize in assisting clients in diversifying their retirement portfolios using precious metals.
Q: How long has Augusta been in operation?
A: Noble Gold provides IRA rollovers and transfers, allowing clients to invest in gold and other precious metals through their retirement funds. This can add security and consistency to a retirement plan, especially during uncertain economic times.Augusta was founded in January 2012 with the aim of educating and empowering Americans to diversify their retirement portfolio.
Q: Why should I choose Noble Gold?
A: Noble Gold is well known for its outstanding customer service and knowledge of the precious metals market. They have a team of skilled professionals who can walk you through the process of investing in gold and other precious metals and ensure you make informed decisions. Noble Gold also provides competitive pricing and secure storage alternatives for your precious metal assets.
Q: Fees including minimum investment
A: Noble Gold provides IRA rollovers and transfers, allowing clients to invest in gold and other precious metals through their retirement funds. This can add security and consistency to a retirement plan, especially during uncertain economic times.Augusta was founded in January 2012 with the aim of educating and empowering Americans to diversify their retirement portfolio.
Fees including minimum investment
To initiate a gold IRA with Noble Gold, a minimum investment of $10,000 is necessary, accompanied by an $80 annual fee for maintaining the gold IRA. Additionally, there is an extra annual charge of $150 for the storage of your precious metals, utilizing one of the recommended depositories endorsed by the company.
Conclusion
Noble Gold Investments has established itself in the precious metals sector as a trustworthy and renowned organization. With a strong focus on education and personalized services, they have gained the trust of many investors looking to diversify their portfolios.
Birch Gold
Best for Hard Asset IRAs
Birch Gold Group was created in 2003 and is headquartered in Burbank, California. The company is known for its array of services, mainly related to gold IRAs.
Customers can open a brand new retirement account or roll over their existing one. Birch Gold is a precious metal dealer and offers bullion and coins in silver, gold, palladium, and platinum.
The company offers both IRA and non-IRA purchases. In the case of IRA purchases, you will have a range of secure depositories to store your precious metals while in the case of non-IRA, Birch Gold will offer you a completely insured shipping option to ensure your metal arrives safely.
If in the future you would like to sell your precious metal, the company may be willing to buy back your gold, thus saving you the trouble of finding a buyer.
What Does Birch Gold Offer?
Birch Gold can address all sorts of concerns you may have. The company offers a wide range of invaluable services such as storage of gold and other precious metals, assistance with retirement planning as well as bullion brokerage.
This company is known primarily for its gold and silver Ira and allows customers to benefit from tax-advantaged investment in gold as well as other precious metals.
Birch Gold allows for both IRA and non-IRA purchases and you can choose from the four main precious metals:
- Gold
- Silver
- Palladium
- Platinum
These metals IRAs are self-directed and allow you to invest in gold, which is impossible to do with other retirement accounts like 401(k).
How to Set up a Gold IRA with Birch Gold
Setting up your gold IRA with Birch Gold is very simple, especially if you have an existing retirement account.
Here are steps to follow:
- Rollover your current IRA or 401(k): If you have an existing eligible IRA or 401(k), you can simply roll over the funds into your new investments in precious metals. Birch Gold gives you an option to transfer all or a portion of your investment into a gold IRA account. Birch Gold experts will guide you through and help you with the required paperwork.
- Create a new account: In case you don’t have an existing retirement account, you can create a new account with Birch Gold. A specialist from the company will help you create a new account.
- Choose your precious metal: Next, choose the precious metal you want to purchase. In addition to gold, you can also purchase silver, palladium, and platinum to diversify your portfolio.
What Can You Buy With Birch Gold?
You can buy a range of bullion and coins with your Birch Gold IRA account, including but not limited to the following:
- American Gold Buffaloes
- American Gold Eagles
- Canadian Gold Maple Leaves
- Silver Twin Maples
- American Silver Eagles
- Platinum Bars and Rounds
- American Platinum Eagles
- Palladium Bars and Rounds
- Canadian Palladium Maple Leaves
Storage Facilities
Finding secured storage for your physical gold IRA is important. Thankfully, Birch Gold has collaborated with some of the most reliable depositories to offer their customers secured storage solutions.
Birch Gold customers can store their precious metals with:
- Brink’s Global Services
- Delaware Depository
Pros and Cons of Birch Gold
Pros
- You have access to a wide range of precious metals
- Hard asset IRAs are also available
- A trusted company with many years of history
- Incredible customer service
- Comparatively lower minimum investment
- Lower fees
Cons
- Pricing structure not transparent
- Investing in a hard asset IRA can be risky
Frequently Asked Questions
Q: Will my investment with Birch Gold be tax-deferred?
A: Yes, you should expect this option if you choose to work with Birch Gold since all self-directed retirement accounts are generally eligible for tax deferral.
Q: Are my precious metals stored by Birch Gold?
A: No, Birch Gold has partnered with third-party storage depositories to offer their customers secure storage for their precious metals.
Q: Can I have an option to store physical gold myself?
A: If you invest in IRA, you are required to store your precious metal with a third-party depository. However, if you invest in non-IRA, you are at liberty to decide where to store your metals.
Fees Including Minimum Investment
Birch Gold has one of the lower minimum investments required, with $10,000. However, there are a number of fees to look out for including:
- Annual fees: $200 – $100 for management fees, $100 for insurance/storage
- Account setup fee: one-time $50 fee
- Wire transfer fee of $30
Additionally, Birch Gold also give a waiver for your first year’s fees for purchases over $50,000.
Conclusion
When you choose Birch Gold as your gold IRA company, you will get specialized help when investing in precious metals. The company has some of the lowest minimum required investments – $10,000.