Can I roll over an existing 401(k) or IRA?

Yes! Rolling over an existing retirement account into a precious metals IRA is one of the most popular ways to get started, and SoundMoney's IRA specialists are experienced in making the process smooth and straightforward.

What Accounts Can Be Rolled Over?

Most employer-sponsored and individual retirement accounts are eligible, including:

• 401(k) — the most common employer-sponsored retirement plan
• 403(b) — typically held by teachers, non-profit, and healthcare workers
• Thrift Savings Plan (TSP) — the retirement plan for federal government and military employees
• Traditional IRA — an existing individual retirement account
• SEP IRA — commonly used by self-employed individuals and small business owners
• SIMPLE IRA — another employer-sponsored plan for small businesses

Is a Rollover Taxable?

When done correctly, a rollover is a completely tax-free event with no penalties. There are two ways to execute a rollover:

Direct Rollover (Recommended)

Funds move directly from your existing custodian to your new SDIRA custodian without ever passing through your hands. This is the cleanest and most straightforward method with zero tax implications.

Indirect Rollover

Your existing custodian sends the funds directly to you, and you then deposit them into your new SDIRA. Important rules apply:

• You have 60 days to deposit the funds or the IRS treats it as a taxable distribution
• Your existing custodian may withhold 20% for taxes, which you would need to make up out of pocket and reclaim later when you file your taxes
• You are limited to one indirect rollover per 12-month period

For these reasons, a direct rollover is almost always the better option.

Are There Limits on Rollover Amounts?

No. Unlike annual contributions, rollovers are not subject to the $7,000/$8,000 annual contribution limits. You can roll over your entire existing account balance in a single transaction, making this an efficient way to move a significant amount into physical precious metals.

What About a Roth IRA?

Rolling a traditional pre-tax retirement account into a Roth precious metals IRA is possible but involves a Roth conversion, which is a taxable event. The converted amount is added to your taxable income for that year. However, future growth and qualified withdrawals would then be tax-free. We strongly recommend consulting a tax advisor before pursuing this path.

How Does SoundMoney Help?

Our IRA specialists work with you every step of the way:

• Help you determine which of your existing accounts are eligible
• Introduce you to your custodian, New Direction Trust Company (NDTCO)
• Coordinate the paperwork and transfer process
• Guide you through selecting your metals once funds arrive

Most rollovers are completed within 2–4 weeks from start to finish.

Updated on: 09/04/2026