How We Compare Gold IRA Companies (2026): The Criteria Behind Our Picks
Our criteria, our sources, and how to apply the same checks yourself.
On This Page
Why We Publish Our Method
Gold IRA companies are hard to compare. Most don't publish metal prices, many quote fees only by phone, and promotions like "free silver" make offers look different from what they cost. So we explain exactly what we look at, where our numbers come from, and which figures we couldn't confirm.
We earn commissions from some companies we recommend, including Augusta Precious Metals and Noble Gold. That never changes the facts we report, and we label every figure we couldn't confirm at the source as "reported."
The Seven Criteria
| Criterion | What We Look For |
|---|---|
| Fee transparency | Published setup, custody and storage fees, not just "call us" |
| Pricing approach | Whether the company discusses spreads and same-day buyback bids |
| Promotions | Bonus or "free" metals that may be paid for through higher prices |
| Minimums | Whether the starting amount is published and fits the reader |
| Product focus | IRA-eligible bullion versus premium or collectible coins |
| Regulatory record | Actions by the CFTC, SEC or state regulators, from .gov sources |
| Process | Education, written confirmation and clear custodian and depository arrangements |
Fees and Minimums Side by Side
Figures marked "published" come from the company's own fee pages. Figures marked "reported" come from third-party reviews or company sales pages and should be confirmed in writing.
| Company | Minimum | Yearly Fees | Source |
|---|---|---|---|
| Augusta Precious Metals | $50,000 | $285 year one, $235 after | Published |
| Noble Gold | $20,000 IRA; $10,000 cash | $335 year one, $285 after | Published |
| Goldco | $25,000 | $80 maintenance + $150 to $200 storage | Reported |
| Birch Gold Group | About $10,000 | About $200 | Reported |
| American Hartford Gold | About $10,000 to $25,000 | Waived on qualifying orders | Reported |
| Patriot Gold Group | $50,000 | Waived above $100,000 | Per its site |
| Preserve Gold | $10,000 | Custodian fees waived up to 5 years | Reported |
| Monetary Gold | About $5,000 to $10,000 | First year covered | Reported |
| Gold Alliance | None stated | $175 | Reported |
| Advantage Gold | Not published | Not published | — |
We only chart figures the companies publish themselves. Yearly fees are a small part of total cost; the spread on metals is usually larger. See gold IRA fees and buybacks and markups.
Why Augusta Is Our Top Pick
Augusta Precious Metals publishes its fee schedule, says it adds no sales commission to its quoted prices, reviews same-day buyback bids with customers, and doesn't run bonus promotions. Its $50,000 minimum is high, which is why we also name a budget pick.
Why Noble Gold Is Our Budget Pick
Noble Gold publishes its fees and starts at $20,000 for IRAs and $10,000 for cash purchases. Its yearly fees are $50 higher than Augusta's after year one.
What We Don't Do
- We don't promise returns or say gold will rise.
- We don't publish invented ratings or scores.
- We don't treat bonus metals as free.
- We don't recommend collectible coins for IRAs, since the IRS treats most collectibles as distributions.
Check Any Company Yourself
- Ask for every fee in writing.
- Ask for the price per ounce over spot on each product.
- Ask for the same-day buyback bid.
- Confirm the custodian and depository by name.
- Search the CFTC, SEC and your state regulator for actions.
Our precious metals regulator actions page lists major cases from .gov sources.
Frequently Asked Questions
Do You Get Paid by Gold IRA Companies?
Yes, we earn commissions from some recommended companies. We label unconfirmed figures as reported.
Why Don't You Rank by Star Ratings?
We prefer verifiable facts like published fees and regulator records over scores.
What Matters Most When Comparing?
The spread on metals, then fee transparency and regulatory record.
Are Reported Figures Reliable?
They're a starting point; always confirm them in writing with the company.
Precious metals prices can fall as well as rise, and a gold IRA carries setup, custody and storage fees. This page is general information, not financial, tax or legal advice. Consider speaking with a licensed financial professional before moving retirement savings.
Use the Same Checklist
Get Augusta's free checklist for choosing a gold IRA company and apply it to any company you're considering.