> ## Knowledge Base Index
> Fetch the complete knowledge base index at: https://help.sound.money/sitemap.xml
> Use this file to discover available pages before exploring further.
> Pure-Markdown content can be obtained by appending a '.md' suffix to the content URLs listed in the sitemap (without the trailing slash).

# What happens after my IRA is open?

Once your self-directed IRA is established and funded, the real work begins — growing and protecting your retirement savings with physical precious metals. Here's what to expect:
## Step 1: Purchase Your Metals
With your account funded, you'll work directly with your SoundMoney IRA specialist to select the metals you want to purchase. We'll help you understand:
* Which metals are **IRA-eligible** (meeting IRS purity standards)
* The difference between **coins and bars** and which may be right for you
* **Current pricing** and availability
* How to balance **gold and silver** based on your goals
## Step 2: Coordinating the Transaction
Once you've chosen your metals, the process flows seamlessly between your three partners:
* **You** direct your custodian (NDTCO) to make the purchase
* **NDTCO** transfers funds to SoundMoney
* **SoundMoney** coordinates secure, insured shipment of your metals to your chosen depository
* **The depository** confirms receipt and updates your account records
## Step 3: Secure Storage Begins
Your metals are stored in your chosen depository under your account. From this point your holdings are:
* Fully **insured**
* Regularly **audited**
* Accessible through your **custodian account portal**
## Ongoing Account Management
Your IRA doesn't just sit idle — you can actively manage and grow it over time in several ways:
### Making Additional Contributions
You can continue growing your IRA by making annual cash contributions up to IRS limits:
* **$7,000 per year** if you are under age 50
* **$8,000 per year** if you are age 50 or older
### Rolling Over Additional Retirement Funds
Already have other retirement accounts? You can roll over funds from an existing **401(k), 403(b), TSP, or traditional IRA** into your precious metals SDIRA at any time. Rollovers are tax-free when handled correctly and are **not subject to annual contribution limits**, meaning you can move larger sums in a single transaction.
### Rebalancing Your Portfolio
* Adjust your mix of **gold and silver** or other IRA-eligible metals as your goals evolve
* Monitor your account through **NDTCO's account management tools**
* Work with your SoundMoney specialist to time purchases strategically
## Staying in Touch With SoundMoney
Your relationship with SoundMoney doesn't end after your first purchase. Our IRA specialists remain available to:
* Review your account and discuss your goals
* Keep you informed on **metal availability and market conditions**
* Help you make additional purchases when the time is right
* Answer any questions along the way
## Distributions & Withdrawals
When you're ready to access your retirement savings:
* At age **59½** you may begin taking penalty-free distributions
* You can take distributions as **physical metal** delivered to you or as **cash** from a metal sale
* At age **73**, Required Minimum Distributions (RMDs) begin — your custodian will help you manage this
* Early withdrawals before age 59½ are subject to a **10% penalty** plus ordinary income tax