TSP to Gold IRA (2026): How Federal Employees and Service Members Can Add Gold
The TSP can't hold gold, but you can move eligible savings into a gold IRA.
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Can You Hold Gold in the TSP?
No. The Thrift Savings Plan, the retirement plan for federal employees and members of the uniformed services, offers a set of funds and doesn't hold physical gold. To own gold or silver bullion in a tax-advantaged account, you move eligible TSP money into a self-directed IRA that holds IRA-eligible metals.
When You Can Move TSP Money
| Situation | Option |
|---|---|
| Separated from federal service | Withdraw and transfer all or part to an IRA |
| Still serving, age 59½ or older | Age-based in-service withdrawals, which can be transferred to an IRA |
| Still serving, under 59½ | Generally not, except hardship withdrawals, which can't be rolled over |
Check current rules and forms with the TSP before you start, as withdrawal options and limits can change.
Traditional and Roth TSP Balances
Traditional TSP money moves to a traditional gold IRA tax-free if it's transferred directly. Roth TSP money moves to a Roth IRA. If your balance includes both, the transfer is usually split between account types. See our Roth gold IRA guide.
Step by Step
- Confirm you're eligible: separated, or age 59½ or older.
- Open a self-directed IRA through a gold IRA company.
- Request a withdrawal from the TSP and choose to transfer it directly to the new IRA custodian.
- Complete the custodian's acceptance paperwork; the gold IRA company can help.
- Once funds arrive, choose IRA-eligible gold or silver.
- Metals are shipped to an approved depository.
A direct transfer avoids the 20% withholding that applies when an employer plan pays you directly. The IRS explains this in its rollover guidance.
What to Weigh First
- Costs: the TSP is known for very low fund costs. A gold IRA has yearly custody and storage fees, usually a few hundred dollars. See gold IRA fees.
- No income: gold doesn't pay interest or dividends.
- Volatility: metals prices can fall as well as rise.
- Partial moves: many savers move only part of their balance.
Noble Gold offers a dedicated TSP to gold guide, with a $20,000 IRA minimum; Augusta's minimum is $50,000.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I Buy Gold in My TSP?
No. You'd need to move eligible money into a self-directed gold IRA.
Can I Move TSP Money While Still Working?
Generally only through age-based withdrawals from 59½.
Is a TSP to Gold IRA Transfer Taxable?
Not if transferred directly into a traditional IRA (or Roth to Roth).
Should I Move All of My TSP Into Gold?
Most savers who use gold keep it to a portion of their savings. Consider professional advice.
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.
Learn How It Works
Request Augusta's free Gold & Silver IRA Info Kit.