The Short Version
Goldco is a large, long-running gold IRA dealer founded in 2006, with an A+ BBB rating and thousands of positive reviews. The most common criticisms are that fees and markups aren't published and that requesting information leads to sales calls. Goldco also resolved a class action over marketing text messages with a reported $2 million settlement. None of that makes it a scam, but it's worth knowing before you call.
Goldco at a Glance
| Founded | 2006, by Trevor Gerszt |
|---|---|
| Headquarters | Woodland Hills, California |
| Reported minimum | $25,000 |
| Reported fees | $275 application; ~$225/yr; segregated storage +$50 (Yahoo Finance) |
| Metals | Gold, silver, platinum, palladium |
| Promotions | Up to 5–10% free silver on large qualifying purchases |
| Buyback | Offered; price depends on market at sale |
Sources: GOBankingRates, Yahoo Finance 2026.
Goldco Ratings
| Platform | Rating |
|---|---|
| Better Business Bureau | A+ |
| Business Consumer Alliance | AAA |
| 4.8 (Clute Journals) | |
| Trustpilot | 4.4 (Clute Journals) |
Ratings change; check each platform directly.
Common Complaints and Criticisms
- Fees and markups not published. GOBankingRates notes dealer markups aren't disclosed; Yahoo Finance notes fees aren't posted online.
- Sales follow-up. Yahoo Finance notes downloading Goldco's guide leads to a sales call.
- Bonus silver economics. Free silver is valuable only if the rest of the order is competitively priced; see free silver explained.
- Celebrity marketing. Endorsements say nothing about price.
The Text Message Class Action
ClassAction.org reports that Goldco Direct LLC agreed to a $2 million settlement in Summerton v. Goldco Direct LLC, a class action alleging the company sent marketing texts to people who had opted out or were on the National Do Not Call Registry, in violation of the Telephone Consumer Protection Act. The case concerned marketing practices, not the handling of customer accounts or metals. Settlements typically don't involve an admission of wrongdoing; see the case documents for details.
What Customers Praise
Positive reviews commonly mention knowledgeable representatives, help with rollover paperwork, and responsive service. Goldco's high ratings across platforms reflect that.
How to Read Gold IRA Reviews
- Look at complaint resolution, not just star ratings. The BBB shows company responses.
- Sort by most recent to see current practices.
- Watch for patterns: repeated mentions of pressure, fee surprises, or slow buybacks matter more than one-off complaints.
- Be cautious of review roundups that rank companies without citing sources.
Questions to Ask Goldco
- What are your setup, annual, and segregated storage fees, in writing?
- What is the price per ounce and spot price on the products you recommend?
- What does the same order cost without bonus silver?
- How is the buyback price calculated?
- Which custodian and depository will I use?
Goldco vs Our Top Picks
| Augusta Precious Metals | Noble Gold | Goldco | |
|---|---|---|---|
| Reported minimum | $50,000 | $20,000 | $25,000 |
| Fees posted online | Partly | Yes | No |
| Promotion | Zero fees up to 10 years (qualifying) | Periodic | Free silver up to 5–10% |
| First contact | Read kit first; book a call when ready | Free kit; specialist call | Guide download leads to a sales call |
Full comparisons: Augusta vs Goldco, Noble Gold vs Goldco, and Goldco alternatives.
Our Take
Goldco is a legitimate, well-reviewed company. If you prefer a learn-first process and a fee waiver over bonus silver, start with Augusta Precious Metals ($50,000+). If you're between $20,000 and $50,000, compare Goldco with Noble Gold, which publishes its fees and includes segregated storage.
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Frequently Asked Questions
Is Goldco Legit?
Yes. Goldco has operated since 2006 and holds an A+ BBB rating.
Has Goldco Been Sued?
Goldco Direct LLC agreed to a reported $2 million settlement of a class action over marketing text messages under the TCPA.
What Are the Most Common Goldco Complaints?
Unpublished fees and markups, and sales follow-up after requesting information.
What's a Good Goldco Alternative?
Augusta Precious Metals for $50,000+; Noble Gold for smaller balances.
Does Goldco Have a Buyback?
Yes. Goldco offers buybacks, with the price depending on market conditions when you sell (GOBankingRates).
Compare Before You Call Goldco
Read Augusta's free kit first, then compare quotes.
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