TSP to Gold IRA Rollover

The TSP is the federal government's version of a 401(k), and it has no physical-metals option. Rolling some of it into a gold IRA lets federal and military savers diversify into precious metals while keeping the tax advantages — subject to the TSP's eligibility rules.

TSP rollover eligibility

You can generally roll over the TSP after leaving federal service. While still employed, in-service rollovers are typically allowed once you reach age 59 and a half. Check current TSP withdrawal rules, which can change.

Why federal savers diversify

The TSP's low-cost funds are excellent for growth but offer no tangible-asset hedge. A gold IRA adds precious-metals diversification many federal employees and veterans use to balance market and inflation risk.

The direct-transfer steps

Open a self-directed IRA, request a direct rollover from the TSP so funds move custodian-to-custodian, choose IRS-eligible metal through your gold IRA company, and have it stored at an approved depository in your IRA's name.

Tax considerations

A direct rollover is tax-free and penalty-free. Roll traditional TSP funds into a Traditional gold IRA, and Roth TSP funds into a Roth gold IRA, to preserve each one's tax treatment.