Precious Metals IRA Fees Calculator

Precious Metals IRA fees typically include a one-time setup fee of $50, annual custodian maintenance fees of $75-$300, and annual secure storage fees of $100-$300. By James Mitchell, Senior IRA Research Analyst — Updated April 2026

The true all-in cost of a Precious Metals IRA in 2026 generally exceeds that of a Gold ETF due to multiple fees that can significantly impact your retirement balance over time. Precious Metals IRAs typically involve a setup fee ranging from $50 to $300, an annual custodian fee between $75 and $300, and an annual storage fee of $100 to $300, resulting in total yearly costs of approximately $175 to $600. In contrast, Gold ETFs usually have much lower expense ratios, often below 0.5%, with no additional storage or setup fees, making them a more cost-effective option for many investors. For example, a Gold ETF like SPDR Gold Shares (GLD) charges an expense ratio of about 0.40%, which can add up to far less than the combined fees of a Precious Metals IRA. Our interactive Precious Metals IRA Fees Calculator for 2026 allows you to compare these costs side-by-side and see how setup fees, annual fees, and bid-ask spreads compound over time, helping you make an informed decision between a Gold IRA and a Gold ETF based on your retirement goals and cost sensitivity.