As economic uncertainty persists, many retirement savers wonder if they can diversify their portfolio with precious metals without waiting until they leave their job.
The answer depends on your specific circumstances and plan rules.
In-Service Rollovers: Age Matters
Most 401(k) plans offer different rollover options based on your age:
- Under 59½: Many plans restrict in-service rollovers for current employees below this age threshold. However, some plans do permit partial rollovers or hardship withdrawals that could be directed toward a Gold IRA.
- 59½ and older: If you’ve reached this age milestone, you’ll typically find more flexibility. Most 401(k) programs permit in-service withdrawals or rollovers while you remain employed.
How to Determine Your Eligibility
Your 401(k) plan’s specific rules ultimately determine what’s possible. To get clarity:
1. Contact your plan administrator directly
2. Request verification of rollover eligibility
3. Ask about documentation requirements
4. Inquire about any plan-specific restrictions
Even if full rollovers aren’t permitted, partial rollovers might be an option and are generally the better option so you don’t put all your eggs in one basket. A partial rollover allows you to diversify a portion of your retirement savings into precious metals while maintaining your employment status and continuing to receive any employer matching contributions.
Understanding your options is the first step toward building a resilient retirement portfolio that includes physical gold assets.
For a comprehensive guide to rolling over your retirement savings to a Gold IRA without penalties, visit The Ultimate Guide to Rolling Over Your 401(k) to a Gold IRA Without Penalties (2025 Edition)