Affiliate Disclosure: This is an independent review site. We may earn referral fees from companies featured on this page. This does not affect our editorial ratings. Rankings are based on BBB rating, fee transparency, minimum investment, and customer service. Custodian selection should be based on fees, service, and compliance record.
Diana Ortiz, CFA®, CFP® — IRA Custodian Evaluation Specialist
Diana has 13 years of experience evaluating self-directed IRA custodians for fee transparency, IRS compliance, and depository quality. She reviewed 22 SDIRA custodian fee schedules (Jan 15–Feb 22, 2026) and opened test accounts with Equity Trust (Feb 4, 2026), Strata Trust (Feb 11, 2026), and GoldStar Trust (Feb 18, 2026).
Reviewed by: Marcus Chen, JD, LL.M. Taxation — IRC § 408(m) and § 4975 citations verified March 10, 2026.
Last updated: March 15, 2026 • Fee data verified: February 2026 • Next review: September 2026
Sources: IRS Publication 590-B • IRS Approved Nonbank Trustees • FINRA BrokerCheck • SEC IAPD
Methodology: Rankings derived from (1) IRS nonbank trustee registration status, (2) BBB accreditation and complaint resolution rate (trailing 36 months), (3) published fee schedules verified via direct custodian contact (February 2026), (4) depository audit reports. 22 custodians evaluated; 5 custodians and 5 dealers shortlisted.
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About Us

PM Custodian Guide is dedicated to helping investors understand IRA custodians for precious metals. We provide balanced, factual information so you can compare gold IRA custodians and make informed decisions about your retirement savings.

Our Mission

Evaluating IRA custodians for precious metals requires attention to fees, storage options, regulatory compliance, and service quality. We aim to present clear, objective information on how custodians work, what to look for in a trust company, and how to compare gold IRA companies.

Our focus areas include:

  • How precious metals IRA custodians operate
  • Fee structures: annual fees, storage fees, transaction fees
  • IRS rules and depository requirements
  • Comparing custodians and trust companies
  • Rollover and transfer processes
  • In-kind distribution and liquidation options

What We Do

PM Custodian Guide serves as an educational resource for investors researching IRA custodians for precious metals. We explain the role of a gold IRA custodian, the importance of approved depositories like Delaware Depository, and how to evaluate transparent pricing and competitive fees.

We do not provide personalized financial, tax, or legal advice. Content is for general informational purposes only. We encourage you to verify fee schedules and custodial agreements with any trust company before opening an account.

Disclaimer

PM Custodian Guide is an educational website. We do not provide investment advice, tax advice, or legal advice. The information on this site is for general informational purposes only. Before making any decisions involving IRA custodians or precious metals IRAs, consult qualified financial advisors, tax professionals, and legal counsel. Precious metals investing involves risk; past performance does not guarantee future results. IRS regulations are complex and subject to change.

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