Once you've settled on gold, the most important decision is who you buy it through. Goldco is one of the most recognizable names in precious metals IRAs, and one we consistently rate highly — especially for first-time investors who want a guided, low-barrier start.
This review explains what Goldco does well, where it could be more transparent, and whether it's the right fit for you.

What customers say about Goldco
You've probably seen Goldco endorsed by public figures such as Sean Hannity and Chuck Norris. Celebrity endorsements are paid marketing, though, so we give far more weight to what everyday customers report.
On that front Goldco holds up well. It has thousands of positive reviews across the Better Business Bureau, Trustpilot and ConsumerAffairs. No company is perfect, but Goldco tends to respond to complaints and resolve them — a good sign of a firm that values long-term relationships.
Reputation and ratings
- A+ rating from the Better Business Bureau (BBB)
- AAA rating from the Business Consumer Alliance (BCA)
- 4.8 / 5 on Trustpilot, with strong scores on ConsumerAffairs and other independent sites
What makes these ratings meaningful is the consistency: customers repeatedly mention clear communication, personal service and a lack of pressure.

Why Goldco stands out
Guidance from day one
Goldco's specialists focus on understanding your goals before recommending anything. For someone new to precious metals, that patient, step-by-step approach is the main reason to choose it.
A clear, educational website
Goldco's site is one of the easiest in the industry to navigate, with free guides and straightforward answers to common questions — useful whether you're new to gold IRAs or already know the basics.
A strong buyback program
If you ever need to sell, Goldco will buy back the metals it sold you at competitive prices. That liquidity matters more than many investors realize until they need it.

Bonus silver on qualifying accounts
Eligible accounts can receive up to 10% in bonus silver on qualifying purchases. Treat promotions as a nice extra rather than a reason to choose a provider, and read the conditions carefully.
What you can buy
Goldco offers IRA-approved gold and silver coins and bars, as well as platinum and palladium, for both retirement accounts and direct purchase.

Fees and transparency
Fee transparency is Goldco's weak spot. Its costs are in line with industry norms, but the fee schedule isn't published on the website, and neither are its storage partners by name.
That doesn't mean there are hidden charges — it means you need to ask. Before funding your account, request a written breakdown of the setup fee, annual custodian and storage fees, and the spread on the specific coins or bars you're buying. Also ask which depository will hold your metals and whether storage is segregated.
How to open a gold IRA with Goldco
Open your account
A Goldco specialist guides you through opening a self-directed IRA and handles the paperwork.
Fund the IRA
Transfer funds from an existing 401(k), TSP, 403(b) or IRA. Goldco coordinates with your current custodian to keep everything compliant.
Choose your metals
Pick from IRS-approved gold and silver coins and bars. You make the final call.
Secure your assets
Goldco arranges insured shipping to an IRS-approved depository and sends documentation confirming your holdings and prices.

Pros and cons
What we like
- No stated minimum to open an account
- Wide range of IRA-approved coins and bars
- One of the strongest buyback programs in the industry
- Large volume of positive customer reviews
- Up-to-date market news and educational content
Watch out for
- Fees, custodians and storage partners are not published on the website
- Bonus offers come with conditions — read the terms carefully
Our verdict
Goldco has earned a loyal client base by combining patient guidance, a low barrier to entry and a dependable buyback program. For first-time gold IRA investors, it's one of the strongest choices available.
Its main shortcoming is that fees and storage partners aren't published, so do your homework and get a written quote. If you'd rather see every cost up front, compare it with Augusta Precious Metals or Birch Gold Group.
Thinking about Goldco? Request their free information kit — there's no obligation, and it's a good way to see their pricing and process before you speak to anyone.
Get the free kit →Still comparing? See how Goldco stacks up against the other providers in our guide to the best gold IRA companies.
Frequently asked questions
Does Goldco have a minimum investment?
Goldco doesn't publish an account minimum, which makes it one of the more accessible options for new investors. Promotions such as bonus silver may have their own qualifying amounts.
What fees does Goldco charge?
Goldco doesn't publish its fees online. Its costs are broadly in line with the industry, but you should ask for a written, itemized quote covering setup, custodian, storage and dealer spreads.
Does Goldco buy back gold?
Yes. Goldco offers a buyback program for metals purchased through it, at competitive market-based prices.
How long has Goldco been in business?
Goldco has been operating since 2006 and is headquartered in the Los Angeles area.