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Rolling over a 401(k) to gold? What to check before you move your money

Rolling over a 401(k) to gold? What to check before you move your money

Summary

Rolling over a 401(k) retirement account into gold means moving money into a special type of IRA that allows holding certain gold assets. This can help diversify a retirement portfolio, but it involves specific rules, costs, and steps to follow to avoid taxes or penalties.

Key Facts

  • Gold prices rose to over $5,500 per ounce in 2026 but later dropped to about $4,400 per ounce.
  • Gold often moves differently compared to stocks and bonds, making it useful for diversifying investments.
  • To roll over a 401(k) into gold, funds usually must go into a self-directed IRA that permits certain types of gold.
  • Not all 401(k) money can be rolled over; some distributions like required minimum distributions or hardship withdrawals cannot be moved.
  • A direct rollover, where the 401(k) sends money straight to the IRA, avoids tax withholding and reduces mistakes.
  • If the distribution goes to you first, you have 60 days to put it into an IRA, or it may become taxable with penalties.
  • Only specific approved gold coins and bullion are allowed in these IRAs; many collectibles are not permitted.
  • Understanding fees, rules, and the type of gold involved is important before making the rollover decision.
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