Gold IRA Storage: Depositories, Insurance & Segregated Storage
Gold IRA storage is not an optional add-on to the account structure. For bullion relying on the IRA precious-metals exception, the IRS requires physical possession by a bank or approved non-bank trustee.
Key points
- IRA bullion generally cannot simply sit in your home safe.
- A depository physically stores metals on behalf of the account structure.
- Segregated and non-segregated storage differ in how holdings are identified.
- Insurance and audit procedures should be verified directly.
- Storage fees are part of total account cost.
The tax-rule foundation
The IRS says certain qualifying bullion is excluded from the collectibles rule if a bank or approved non-bank trustee keeps physical possession. IRS guidance.
Segregated vs non-segregated
Segregated storage typically identifies and separates your specific holdings. Non-segregated or commingled storage holds equivalent metal with other customers' holdings. Ask the custodian/depository how ownership records and distributions work under each arrangement.
Insurance
Do not rely on a vague 'fully insured' phrase. Ask who provides coverage, which losses are covered or excluded, whether the policy applies to allocated client assets, and where the policy terms can be reviewed.
Choosing a facility
Compare location, audit practices, insurance, storage method, distribution procedures and fees. The depository should be evaluated as its own service provider, not just as a logo recommended by a dealer.
Where to go next
Continue with the Storage resource center, or review our Gold IRA company due-diligence framework.