FAQ: How does Lear Capital comply with regulations?

Q: How does Lear Capital comply with regulations?

Lear Capital operates in a regulated environment, and for precious-metals IRA transactions it works within IRS rules for self-directed IRAs, IRA-eligible metals, and approved storage. Because compliance can include IRA rules, consumer-protection expectations, and AML/KYC practices, the most practical way to verify compliance is to review the actual partners and documentation used in your transaction. For an IRA, confirm the custodian administering the account, verify the depository used for storage, and request documentation showing that the metals offered meet IRA eligibility requirements (including fineness standards). You can also ask for written disclosures covering fees, pricing mechanics, trade confirmations, and any stated buyback policies, and inquire about any relevant state licensing or registration that may apply based on your location. As a best practice, confirm IRA-specific rules directly with the custodian, since the custodian is responsible for maintaining the IRA's structure and administration under IRS requirements.

by Kathrynn Ward • January 23, 2026

Documents and checklists illustrating regulatory compliance for precious metals IRAs.

When supporting precious-metals IRA transactions, Lear Capital must work within IRS rules governing self-directed IRAs and approved storage. Because “compliance” can mean different things (IRA rules, consumer protection, AML/KYC), the strongest approach is to verify compliance through the actual partners and documents used in your transaction.

Here’s the compliance landscape that matters most to clients:

IRS rules for precious metals IRAs: IRA-eligible precious metals generally must meet IRS fineness standards and be held within a self-directed IRA structure.
Qualified custodian requirement: In an IRA, the account is administered by a custodian; the dealer sells the metals, but the custodian is responsible for maintaining the IRA structure properly.
Approved storage requirement: IRA-held metals must be stored at an eligible depository; personal possession is generally not permitted for IRA assets.
Consumer-protection expectations: Transparent disclosure of fees, pricing mechanics, and trade terms align with consumer protection principles and helps prevent surprises.
AML/KYC considerations: Precious metals transactions can involve identity verification and other controls depending on the transaction and counterparties.
Investment Advice: Precious Metals companies are not allowed to provide investment advice

How to verify compliance (what to request):

The name of the IRA custodian and the IRA account documentation
The name of the depository and storage documentation
Confirmation that products offered for IRAs are IRA-eligible (and why)
Written disclosures for fees, trade confirmations, and any stated buyback policies
Any relevant state licensing/registration information if applicable to your location

Best practice: Confirm IRA-specific rules with the custodian, since the custodian is ultimately responsible for ensuring the IRA is structured and administered according to IRS requirements.

For specific questions about Lear Capital’s regulatory compliance or licensing, contact the company at 800-576-9355 or visit www.learcapital.com.

Kathrynn Ward is a Research Specialist at Lear Capital, focused on educating our readers and customers about gold, silver, and the economic forces shaping the U.S. dollar and financial markets. She distills current events as well as topics like inflation, government debt, central bank policy, and market volatility into clear, practical insights to help Americans make educated decisions about their financial future.

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