American Bullion has operated as a gold IRA company since 2009, making it one of the earliest pioneers in the precious metals retirement investing space. With over 15 years of experience and an A+ Better Business Bureau rating, the company focuses on helping investors diversify their retirement portfolios with gold, silver, platinum, and palladium. American Bullion stands out for its transparent approach, posting all required forms and fee structures directly on its website, which many competitors keep hidden until you contact them.
If you’re considering adding precious metals to your retirement strategy, understanding how American Bullion compares to other gold IRA companies is essential. The company offers a straightforward rollover process from existing retirement accounts like 401(k)s and traditional IRAs, with no tax penalties when done correctly. Their partnership with Delaware Depository for storage and STRATA Trust Company as custodian provides the security and compliance needed for IRA investments.
This comprehensive review examines American Bullion’s investment options, fee structure, customer service, and how it measures against top competitors in the gold IRA industry. You’ll discover the company’s strengths in transparency and experience, as well as areas where other providers might better serve your specific needs.
American Bullion Gold IRA Review – An Overview
American Bullion stands as one of the established players in the precious metals industry since 2009. The company has built its reputation through specialized Gold IRA services and maintains strong industry credentials.
Company Background and History
American Bullion was founded in 2009 by industry veterans who recognized the growing demand for precious metals in retirement portfolios. The company emerged during the economic uncertainty following the 2008 financial crisis.
The business is headquartered in Los Angeles, California. From the beginning, American Bullion focused specifically on helping investors convert traditional retirement accounts into self-directed Gold IRAs.
The company specializes in IRA rollovers from existing 401(k)s and traditional IRAs. This focus has allowed them to develop streamlined processes for these conversions.
American Bullion offers investment products in four precious metals:
- Gold
- Silver
- Platinum
- Palladium
The company positions itself as an educational resource for investors. They provide free guides and educational materials about precious metals investing.
Reputation and Industry Recognition
American Bullion holds an A+ rating from the Better Business Bureau. This rating reflects their commitment to customer service and ethical business practices.
The company is recognized as a U.S. Mint-listed dealer. This designation shows they meet official standards for precious metals transactions.
American Bullion maintains membership in the Industry Council for Tangible Assets (ICTA). This trade organization represents reputable precious metals dealers.
On Trustpilot, the company has earned 4.9 stars from 212 customer reviews. This rating places them among the higher-rated gold IRA companies in terms of customer satisfaction.
The company has established partnerships with trusted storage facilities. They work with Delaware Depository and Brinks Global Services for secure precious metals storage.
How American Bullion Gold IRAs Work
American Bullion uses a three-step process with STRATA Trust Company as the custodian and Delaware Depository for secure storage. You can transfer funds from existing retirement accounts without tax penalties and choose from gold, silver, platinum, and palladium investments.
Account Setup and Eligibility
You can open a Gold IRA with American Bullion if you have an existing retirement account like a 401(k) or traditional IRA. The company works with STRATA Trust Company as the preferred custodian to handle all paperwork and compliance.
The setup process starts with filling out STRATA’s IRA Custodial Account Application. You can download this PDF form directly from American Bullion’s website.
After you submit your application, one of American Bullion’s precious metals specialists reviews it. They contact you once STRATA Trust Company approves your account.
Setup fees with STRATA include:
- $50 account setup fee
- $95 annual maintenance fee
- $150 segregated storage or $100 non-segregated storage
American Bullion offers free storage and no custodial fees for one year if you invest at least $50,000.
Types of Precious Metals IRAs
American Bullion offers precious metals IRAs that hold four types of metals. Each metal must meet IRS purity requirements to qualify for retirement account storage.
Gold options include:
- American Eagle coins
- American Buffalo coins
- Canadian Maple Leaf coins
- PAMP Suisse, UBS, and Credit Suisse bars
Silver products available:
- American Eagle coins
- Canadian Maple Leaf coins
- Austrian Philharmonic coins
- PAMP Suisse and Johnson Matthey bars
The company also provides platinum and palladium options. Platinum choices include American Eagle and Canadian Maple Leaf coins plus PAMP Suisse bars. Palladium investors can choose Canadian Maple Leaf coins or PAMP Suisse bars.
Self-Directed IRA Options
A self-directed IRA gives you control over your investment choices beyond stocks and bonds. American Bullion specializes in helping you move retirement funds into precious metals through their partnership with STRATA Trust Company.
You can roll over funds from your current 401(k), traditional IRA, or other retirement accounts without tax penalties. This process lets you diversify your retirement portfolio with physical precious metals.
The self-directed IRA structure means you make the investment decisions. American Bullion provides guidance on IRS-approved precious metals and handles the purchase and storage logistics.
Your metals are stored at Delaware Depository in Wilmington, Delaware. This facility has Class 3 vaults and carries $1 billion insurance through Lloyd’s of London. You can visit and physically view your investments at any time.
Gold IRA Rollover and Transfer Process
American Bullion helps you move funds from existing retirement accounts into gold IRAs without tax penalties. The process typically takes 2-4 weeks and follows specific IRS rules to maintain your account’s tax-advantaged status.
Rollover Procedures and Timeline
Direct vs. Indirect Rollovers
A direct rollover moves funds straight from your current custodian to your new gold IRA custodian. This method avoids the 60-day rule and reduces tax complications.
An indirect rollover means you receive the funds first, then deposit them into your gold IRA within 60 days. Missing this deadline triggers taxes and penalties.
Step-by-Step Process
- Account Setup – You open a self-directed IRA with an approved custodian
- Documentation – Complete rollover paperwork with your current plan administrator
- Fund Transfer – Money moves between custodians (direct) or to you temporarily (indirect)
- Metal Selection – Choose IRS-approved precious metals like American Eagles or Canadian Maple Leafs
Timeline Expectations
The entire gold IRA rollover process usually takes 2-4 weeks. Some transfers may complete faster, while others could take longer due to paperwork delays or custodian processing times.
Your current employer’s plan administrator controls much of the timeline. Some companies process requests quickly, while others may take several weeks.
Tax Considerations and Compliance
Tax-Free Transfers
Gold IRA rollovers from traditional retirement accounts maintain the same tax treatment. You won’t pay taxes during the transfer if done correctly.
IRS Compliance Rules
Your gold IRA must hold only IRS-approved metals. Gold must be 99.5% pure, while silver needs 99.9% purity.
The metals cannot be stored at your home. They must stay in an IRS-approved depository facility.
Avoiding Penalties
Direct rollovers eliminate the risk of missing deadlines. With indirect rollovers, you have exactly 60 days to complete the transfer.
You can only do one indirect rollover per 12-month period per account. This rule doesn’t apply to direct rollovers.
Required Minimum Distributions
If you’re over 73, you must still take required minimum distributions from your gold IRA. The custodian will help calculate these amounts based on your account value.
Investment Options and Precious Metals Selection
American Bullion offers four main precious metals for investment: gold, silver, platinum, and palladium. These metals come in various forms including coins and bars that meet strict IRS purity requirements for retirement accounts.
Gold Bullion and Coins
Gold bullion represents the most popular choice for precious metals investment through American Bullion. You can choose from both coins and bars that meet the IRS minimum purity requirement of 99.5%.
Popular Gold Coin Options:
- American Gold Eagle coins
- American Gold Buffalo coins
- Canadian Gold Maple Leaf coins
- Austrian Gold Philharmonic coins
Gold Bar Selection:
- PAMP Suisse gold bars
- Credit Suisse gold bars
- Perth Mint gold bars
Gold coins typically carry higher premiums than bars due to their collectible nature. Bars offer a more cost-effective way to buy larger amounts of gold bullion.
All gold products come from reputable mints and refineries worldwide. This ensures quality and authenticity for your precious metals investment.
Other Eligible Precious Metals
Silver products require 99.9% purity for IRA eligibility. You can invest in American Silver Eagles, Canadian Silver Maple Leafs, and Austrian Silver Philharmonics.
Silver bars include options from Johnson Matthey, Sunshine Minting, and Royal Canadian Mint. Silver generally costs less than gold, making it accessible for smaller budgets.
Platinum options require 99.95% purity. American Bullion offers American Platinum Eagles and Canadian Platinum Maple Leafs. Platinum has strong industrial demand from automotive and jewelry sectors.
Palladium products also need 99.95% purity. The company provides palladium bars from certified refineries. Palladium comes mainly from Russia and South Africa, creating supply risks that affect pricing.
Diversification Strategies
You can build a balanced precious metals portfolio using multiple metals instead of just gold. This approach helps reduce risk through diversification across different market sectors.
Silver offers industrial demand support alongside investment appeal. Platinum and palladium provide exposure to automotive industry demand cycles.
Each metal responds differently to economic conditions. Gold often acts as a safe haven during market uncertainty. Silver follows both precious metals and industrial metal trends.
American Bullion’s specialists help you determine the right mix based on your goals. They consider factors like budget, risk tolerance, and investment timeline when recommending allocations.
Storage, Security, and Custodian Partnerships
American Bullion partners with Delaware Depository for secure storage and works with IRS-approved custodians to manage your gold IRA. The company waives storage and custodian fees for the first year on accounts over $50,000.
Delaware Depository Features
American Bullion stores your precious metals at Delaware Depository’s Wilmington facility. This IRS-approved depository uses Class 3 vaults with advanced security systems.
The facility provides segregated storage options. This means your metals are stored separately from other customers’ holdings.
Delaware Depository offers full insurance coverage for all stored metals. The insurance protects against theft, damage, and loss.
Key Security Features:
- State-of-the-art security protocols
- 24/7 monitoring systems
- Climate-controlled environment
- Restricted access controls
The depository meets all IRS requirements for precious metals storage. Your investment stays compliant with federal regulations.
Storage Fees and Insurance
American Bullion waives storage fees for your first year. This applies to new accounts with a minimum $50,000 investment.
After the first year, standard storage fees apply. The exact fees depend on your account size and storage type.
Insurance coverage is included with storage services. This protects your full investment value without additional premiums.
First Year Benefits:
- No storage fees
- No custodian account fees
- Full insurance coverage included
The fee waiver saves you hundreds of dollars in the first year. Most gold IRA companies charge these fees from day one.
You can choose between segregated and non-segregated storage. Segregated storage keeps your metals separate but may cost more after the first year.
Custodian Services Overview
American Bullion works with IRS-approved custodians who specialize in self-directed IRAs. These custodians handle all regulatory requirements for your account.
The custodians manage account setup and rollover processes. They ensure your transfers comply with IRS rules and timelines.
Your custodian processes all transactions for buying and selling metals. They coordinate with Delaware Depository for storage and delivery services.
Custodian Responsibilities:
- Account administration
- IRS compliance monitoring
- Transaction processing
- Required reporting
The custodian partnership streamlines your gold IRA management. You get professional oversight without handling complex paperwork yourself.
Costs, Fees, and Buyback Program
American Bullion charges various fees for IRA setup and maintenance while offering competitive market rates for their buyback services. The company waives first-year fees for new accounts and provides transparent pricing on all transactions.
Fee Structure and Account Charges
American Bullion waives first-year fees for new Gold IRA accounts. This helps reduce your initial investment costs when starting.
After the first year, you pay annual maintenance fees. These cover custodial services, storage, and insurance for your precious metals.
Setup fees vary depending on your account type. Gold and Silver IRAs have different fee structures based on the services included.
Common fee categories include:
- Account setup fees
- Annual maintenance charges
- Storage fees at secure facilities
- Insurance costs for your metals
- Transaction fees for purchases
The company requires minimum investment amounts that vary by service type. Higher minimums may affect smaller investors’ ability to diversify their portfolios effectively.
Buyback Process and Liquidity
American Bullion offers a buyback program that lets you sell your precious metals back to the company. You receive competitive market rates when you decide to liquidate your holdings.
The process is straightforward. You can start the buyback online or by phone with quick turnaround times.
This program gives you financial flexibility. You don’t need to find outside buyers for your gold or silver when you want to sell.
The buyback rates are based on current market prices. This ensures you get fair value for your precious metals investments.
The program works for both IRA holdings and direct bullion purchases. This gives you multiple exit strategies for your investments.
Pricing Transparency
American Bullion provides clear pricing information for all their services. You can see fees upfront before making any commitments.
Bullion prices include premiums above spot market prices. These premiums vary based on the type of metal and current market demand.
The company explains all costs during the consultation process. This includes setup fees, ongoing charges, and any transaction costs.
You receive detailed information about minimum investment requirements. This helps you plan your investment strategy effectively.
Market rates for buybacks are communicated clearly when you request a sale. The company provides current pricing without hidden fees or surprises.
Comparing American Bullion to Competitors
American Bullion faces strong competition from established gold IRA companies that offer different fee structures, customer perks, and service levels. While American Bullion excels in transparency and experience, other precious metals dealers provide unique advantages that may appeal to different types of investors.
Comparison with Other Gold IRA Companies
American Hartford Gold stands out as a top competitor with celebrity endorsements and special promotions. They offer free shipping and complimentary silver deals that American Bullion doesn’t provide.
American Hartford Gold also has more customer reviews and wider name recognition in the market. Their marketing approach differs significantly from American Bullion’s more straightforward business model.
Thor Metals Group offers a clear advantage with its formal buyback program. Their website design makes navigation easier with an “All Products” section on the main page.
Priority Gold competes well in the setup process category. They streamline account opening procedures that some customers find more user-friendly than American Bullion’s approach.
Patriot Gold Group provides multiple customer service options including live chat. This gives customers more ways to get help compared to American Bullion’s phone and email system.
Advantages and Disadvantages
American Bullion’s main advantage is transparency. They post all forms and documents online where most gold IRA companies require phone calls to get this information.
The company charges reasonable spreads of 7-10% for bullion compared to competitors with markups up to 150%. Their $225 annual fee covers both storage and custodian services.
Their biggest disadvantage is website organization. Finding specific precious metals requires navigating through multiple submenus unlike competitors with simpler layouts.
American Bullion lacks promotional offers that other companies use to attract customers. They don’t provide free shipping, bonus silver, or other incentives that competitors offer regularly.
The company has fewer total customer reviews than larger precious metals dealers. This makes it harder for potential customers to research experiences from other investors.
Customer Reviews and Educational Resources
American Bullion maintains strong customer satisfaction with high ratings across major review platforms and provides comprehensive educational materials to help investors understand precious metals investing. The company emphasizes both service quality and investor education as core parts of their business approach.
Client Testimonials and Ratings
You’ll find American Bullion has earned impressive ratings across multiple review platforms. The company holds 4.9 stars on Trustpilot from 216 customer reviews and maintains an A+ rating with the Better Business Bureau.
Customer feedback consistently highlights several key strengths:
- Fast and helpful customer service
- Smooth IRA rollover processes
- Competitive pricing structures
- Knowledgeable professional staff
Many clients praise the company’s transparent representatives and patient guidance throughout the investment process. Reviews frequently mention reasonable fees and excellent service from experienced advisors.
What stands out is the absence of complaints on major complaint websites like Ripoff Report or Complaints Board. This clean record is unusual for large precious metals dealers.
The Better Business Bureau rating reflects American Bullion’s commitment to resolving customer concerns quickly. The A+ rating considers factors like complaint resolution time, business transparency, and overall practices.
Educational Materials and Guidance
You have access to extensive educational resources through American Bullion’s platform. The company provides free gold guides and educational webinars to help you understand precious metals investing benefits.
Their educational approach focuses on helping you make informed investment decisions. The materials cover topics like:
- Gold IRA rollover processes
- Precious metals market insights
- Retirement planning strategies
- Economic protection benefits
American Bullion assigns dedicated Gold IRA experts to provide personalized guidance throughout your investment journey. These specialists help you understand the rollover process from start to finish.
The company emphasizes transparency in their educational materials. They explain fee structures clearly and help you understand storage options and security measures for your precious metals investments.
You can access market analysis and retirement planning guides that explain how precious metals fit into diversified portfolios. This educational support continues beyond your initial investment setup.
Frequently Asked Questions
American Bullion clients often ask about the benefits of gold in retirement accounts and how the company handles storage and security. Questions also focus on rollover procedures, fees, and which precious metals qualify for IRA inclusion.
What are the benefits of including gold in an IRA with American Bullion?
Adding gold to your IRA through American Bullion helps diversify your retirement portfolio. Gold can protect against inflation and market downturns.
You get tax advantages when you hold gold in an IRA. The precious metals grow tax-deferred until you make withdrawals in retirement.
American Bullion specializes in Gold IRA rollovers. They help you move existing retirement funds without tax penalties.
The company offers expertise in self-directed IRAs. This gives you more control over your investment choices.
How does American Bullion ensure the security and storage of gold in their IRAs?
American Bullion uses secure storage facilities for your precious metals. They work with approved depositories that meet IRS requirements.
The storage facilities have insurance coverage and security systems. Your gold stays protected in segregated storage areas.
You receive regular account statements. These show your holdings and their current values.
The company uses STRATA storage options. This provides additional security measures for your precious metals.
Can you explain the process of rolling over an existing retirement account into a gold IRA with American Bullion?
American Bullion helps you transfer funds from traditional IRAs or 401(k)s. The process avoids tax penalties when done correctly.
You start by contacting American Bullion for a consultation. They guide you through the required paperwork.
The company coordinates with your current retirement account provider. This ensures a smooth transfer of funds.
Once the rollover completes, you can buy approved precious metals. American Bullion handles the purchase and storage arrangements.
What are the fees associated with a gold IRA account at American Bullion?
Gold IRA accounts typically have setup fees. These cover the initial account opening and paperwork.
Annual maintenance fees apply to your account. These fees cover storage, insurance, and administrative costs.
You pay transaction fees when buying or selling precious metals. The exact amounts depend on your purchase size.
Storage fees vary based on your account value. American Bullion provides fee details during your consultation.
How do American Bullion’s gold IRA services compare to other companies in terms of costs and customer satisfaction?
American Bullion has an A+ rating from the Better Business Bureau. This shows their commitment to customer service.
The company receives positive ratings on review platforms. Customers praise their expertise and transparency.
Their fees are competitive with other gold IRA companies. The exact costs depend on your account size and needs.
American Bullion focuses on education and customer support. They provide webinars and resources to help you understand gold investing.
What types of gold and precious metals are eligible for inclusion in an American Bullion IRA?
Your IRA can hold gold, silver, platinum, and palladium. All metals must meet IRS purity requirements.
Gold must be at least 99.5% pure. Silver needs to be 99.9% pure for IRA eligibility.
Approved coins include American Eagles and Canadian Maple Leafs. Certain bars and rounds also qualify.
American Bullion helps you choose IRS-approved products. They ensure your purchases meet all requirements for IRA inclusion.
