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Lear Capital is a U.S.-based precious metals company that focuses on physical gold and silver purchases, with a strong emphasis on Precious Metals IRAs for retirement savers.
Founded in the late 1990s, the company has built national recognition through long-term advertising, a phone-based service model, and a full-service approach that guides consumers through account setup, metal selection, and storage.
As inflation pressures persist, federal debt continues to rise, and questions remain about the long-term strength of the U.S. dollar, many Americans are looking at tangible assets as a way to help preserve purchasing power.
Physical gold and silver continue to play a role in that discussion, particularly among retirement savers seeking diversification beyond traditional paper-based accounts.
This Lear Capital review takes a fact-based look at the company’s background, services, pricing approach, product offerings, customer experience, and reputation to help consumers determine whether the company aligns with their goals.
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Company Background & History
Headquartered in Los Angeles, California, Lear Capital was founded by Kevin DeMeritt in 1997. With more than two decades in operation, the company ranks among the longer-standing firms in the U.S. precious metals industry, where turnover among dealers is common.
The company offers both Precious Metals IRAs and direct gold and silver purchases for customers who want physical delivery. Over the years, Lear Capital has built brand awareness through national marketing campaigns and a sales model centered on one-on-one conversations with dedicated representatives.
Longevity is often cited as one of Lear Capital’s strengths. The company has operated through multiple market cycles, including the dot-com downturn, the 2008 financial crisis, the COVID-era stimulus period, and more recent inflationary conditions.
Firms with this length of operating history typically have more established compliance processes, vendor relationships, and operational infrastructure.
That said, a long track record alone does not make a company suitable for every buyer, which is why examining products, pricing practices, and overall experience remains essential.
Precious Metals Offered
Lear Capital offers a broad selection of precious metals, serving both retirement savers using tax-advantaged accounts and buyers purchasing metals for direct delivery.
Gold Products
Gold offerings typically include:
- IRS-approved gold bullion coins and bars suitable for Precious Metals IRAs
- Widely recognized sovereign-minted gold coins
- Select premium or collectible gold coins purchased outside of retirement accounts
- Popular coins include American Eagles, Canadian Maple Leafs, Austrian Philharmonics, Gold Buffalos, and Mexican Libertads, to name a few
Bullion products are most commonly used for retirement accounts, while higher-premium coins are generally positioned for collectors or buyers seeking rarity rather than metal weight efficiency.
Silver Products
Silver is another core area of focus. Available options generally include:
- IRA-eligible silver bullion coins and bars
- Silver products available for direct shipment to consumers
- Popular silver coins include American Eagles, British Britannias, Canadian Maple Leafs, and Chinese Silver Pandas
Silver often appeals to buyers seeking a lower entry point than gold, though it can experience greater short-term price fluctuations.
Other Precious Metals
Lear Capital also offers platinum and palladium in limited circumstances. These metals tend to play a smaller role in retirement-focused strategies and are less commonly used than gold or silver.
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Lear Capital Precious Metals IRA Overview
A central part of Lear Capital’s business is assisting retirement savers with opening self-directed Precious Metals IRAs backed by physical gold and silver.
How the Process Works
The process begins with opening a new self-directed IRA through an approved custodian. Lear Capital primarily works with Equity Trust, a nationally recognized custodian specializing in self-directed retirement accounts that hold alternative assets, including physical precious metals.
With guidance from a Lear Capital representative, the account application is completed and submitted to the custodian. Funding then occurs through either a direct trustee-to-trustee transfer or a rollover from an existing qualified retirement account.
The exact timeline depends on the originating custodian, though account setup is typically completed first, followed by transfer of funds once released.
After funds are available, retirement savers select IRS-approved metals. Lear Capital facilitates the purchase and coordinates insured shipment of the metals to an approved depository for storage.
Related: What the Silver Shortage Means for Your Retirement
Eligible Retirement Accounts
Funds may be moved from many qualified retirement accounts, including:
- Traditional and Roth IRAs
- SEP and SIMPLE IRAs
- 401(k), 403(b), and 457(b) plans
- Thrift Savings Plan (TSP) accounts
- Certain pension plans
Eligibility depends on individual circumstances and plan rules, so confirmation is required before initiating a transfer.
IRS-Approved Metals
Only specific bullion products that meet IRS purity requirements are eligible for use inside a Precious Metals IRA. Collectible or numismatic coins generally do not qualify, even if they are made of gold or silver. Lear Capital offers both IRA-eligible bullion and non-IRA products, making it important for buyers to clearly identify which metals are appropriate for retirement accounts.
Protect Your Retirement Savings
Free Guide Reveals How to Buy Silver & Gold with Your 401(k) or IRA
Fees, Pricing & Promotional Offers
One area where Lear Capital stands out from many competitors is pricing transparency. Unlike precious metals companies that require consumers to call for quotes, Lear Capital publishes real-time product pricing directly on its website.
This allows gold and silver buyers to research available products, compare prices, and monitor market movements without speaking to a sales representative.
For consumers who value the ability to review pricing independently, this level of visibility can be a meaningful advantage.
Pricing for precious metals naturally fluctuates throughout the trading day based on market conditions. Listed prices generally reflect the current metal price along with product-specific premiums and dealer spreads. Final pricing is typically confirmed at the time an order is placed.
Pricing Approach
Like most full-service precious metals firms, Lear Capital’s pricing is influenced by several factors, including:
- The market price of the underlying metal
- Product-specific premiums that vary by coin or bar
- Dealer spreads and operating costs
Pricing may differ between IRA-eligible bullion and premium or collectible coins, which tend to carry higher markups. Buyers should be mindful of these differences when comparing options.
Fees and Promotional Considerations
Costs related to Precious Metals IRAs, such as custodial and storage fees, are separate from metal pricing and are handled by third-party providers. Lear Capital periodically advertises promotional offers that may reduce or cover some of these fees for qualifying purchases.
Availability and eligibility can vary, so written confirmation is recommended.
IRA-Related Fees
Opening and maintaining a Precious Metals IRA involves fees charged by third-party custodians and storage facilities, not just the metals dealer. These costs generally include:
- A one-time account setup fee
- Annual custodial fees
- Ongoing storage fees at an IRS-approved depository
Actual costs can vary based on account options, such as electronic statements, segregated versus non-segregated storage, and custodial preferences.
Promotional Fee Coverage
Lear Capital periodically advertises promotional offers that may cover some IRA setup or storage fees for qualifying purchases. These offers are often tiered and may apply only to select product categories rather than standard bullion.
Because promotional terms and eligibility can change, retirement savers should confirm details in writing and understand which products, if any, are required to qualify.
Pricing Transparency Considerations
Consumers evaluating Lear Capital should request a full written breakdown of costs before moving forward and compare pricing across multiple dealers. This helps ensure clarity and avoids surprises, particularly when comparing bullion products versus higher-premium coins.
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Minimum Purchase Requirements
LearCapital.com
Lear Capital sets clear minimum purchase thresholds that vary based on how metals are purchased.
Precious Metals IRA Minimums
For Precious Metals IRAs, Lear Capital typically requires a minimum account size of $10,000. This aligns with the company’s guided, full-service IRA model, which includes assistance with account setup, custodial coordination through Equity Trust, and insured storage at an IRS-approved depository.
This structure may appeal to retirement savers who want hands-on support throughout the process, though it may be less suitable for those looking to start with smaller balances.
Direct Precious Metals Purchases
For consumers purchasing metals for direct delivery through Lear Capital’s online store, the minimum order amount is $1,000. These purchases allow buyers to take advantage of real-time online pricing while acquiring physical gold or silver without opening a retirement account.
As with any precious metals purchase, buyers should confirm product availability and pricing at checkout, as market conditions can change quickly.
Storage, Custodian & Asset Security
Custodian: Equity Trust
Lear Capital works primarily with Equity Trust as its custodian of choice for Precious Metals IRA accounts. Equity Trust is a nationally recognized provider of self-directed IRAs that administers alternative assets, including physical precious metals.
The custodian handles account administration, IRS reporting, compliance, and recordkeeping, while Lear Capital facilitates the acquisition of approved metals.
Depository Storage
Metals held within a Precious Metals IRA are shipped, fully insured, and stored at IRS-approved third-party depositories. Lear Capital commonly utilizes the Delaware Depository, a long-established storage facility that specializes in safeguarding precious metals.
The Delaware Depository offers:
- High-security vault storage
- Comprehensive insurance coverage
- Independent auditing and reporting processes
Account holders generally have the option to choose between segregated and non-segregated storage, each with different cost considerations.
Insurance & Protection
Metals stored at approved depositories are insured for their declared value against theft, damage, or loss while in storage. Shipments between facilities are also insured during transit, consistent with standard industry practices.
Protect Your Retirement Savings
Free Guide Reveals How to Buy Silver & Gold with Your 401(k) or IRA
Buyback Program & Liquidity
Lear Capital offers a buyback program that allows customers to sell eligible precious metals back to the company when they choose. This feature is common among established precious metals dealers and is designed to provide an additional option for liquidity.
How the Buyback Process Works
The buyback process generally involves contacting Lear Capital to request a quote for the metals being sold. Pricing is based on current market conditions and the specific products involved. For metals held inside a Precious Metals IRA, the custodian and depository coordinate the transaction and settlement.
As with any dealer buyback, pricing at resale can vary depending on:
- The type of metal
- Whether the product is standard bullion or a premium or collectible coin
- Market demand at the time of sale
Liquidity Considerations
Physical gold and silver are among the more liquid tangible assets, though they are not traded as instantly as securities. Buyers should review buyback policies during the vetting process and compare both pricing and terms across two or three dealers. Buyback programs are best viewed as a convenience rather than a guaranteed exit price.
Customer Experience & Support
Lear Capital operates primarily through a guided, phone-based service model. While the company has a robust online shopping portal, IRA customers typically work directly with an account representative throughout the process.
One-on-One Support Model
Most customers interact with:
- A dedicated account representative for metal selection and order coordination
- An IRA team member who assists with custodial paperwork and transfers
This hands-on model is designed to simplify the process for retirement savers, particularly those unfamiliar with self-directed IRAs.
Order Review & Price Protections
Lear Capital advertises a 24-hour order review period, which allows buyers time to confirm the details of a purchase. During this window, orders can be canceled without penalty.
The company also promotes a price match policy, allowing buyers a limited period to compare pricing with competing dealers. Eligibility depends on product type and market conditions, and not all metals may qualify.
Consumers should request written confirmation of any policies discussed and review invoices carefully before finalizing a transaction.
Sales vs. Education Balance
Lear Capital positions its approach as educational, offering explanations of product types, market basics, and storage considerations. However, some consumers report a strong sales component, particularly when premium or collectible coins are presented. Buyers are best served by taking time, asking direct questions, and comparing options.
Visit Lear Capital's Website to Learn More.
Online Reputation & Reviews
Lear Capital maintains a strong presence across third-party review platforms, and overall sentiment reflects the mixed but generally positive feedback one would expect from a long-standing national precious metals company.
Better Business Bureau (BBB)
At the time of this writing, Lear Capital holds an A+ rating with the Better Business Bureau and a 4.64-star average based on 110 customer reviews. The BBB listing also includes a record of complaints and documented company responses, offering insight into how Lear Capital handles issues when they arise.
Trustpilot
Lear Capital is also active on Trustpilot, where it currently holds a 4.8-star rating based on 4,982 reviews. Many of the Trustpilot comments highlight customers’ interactions with representatives, the clarity of explanations provided during the IRA setup process, and the overall customer service experience.
Business Consumer Alliance & TrustLink
The company maintains additional high ratings across other consumer platforms. The Business Consumer Alliance gives Lear Capital an AAA rating with an average of 5 stars, and TrustLink reports a 4.5-star average based on 326 reviews.
Common Themes in Feedback
Across platforms, several themes appear repeatedly.
Frequently cited positives include:
- Knowledgeable and patient representatives
- Step-by-step assistance with Precious Metals IRAs
- Clear explanations during account setup
Common criticisms include:
- Concerns about pricing transparency
- Follow-up communication that some buyers feel is too frequent
- Higher premiums associated with certain collectible or specialty coins
As with all online reviews, readers should focus on consistent patterns over time and consider the context of each review. Looking across multiple platforms offers a balanced view of both strengths and recurring concerns.
Legal & Regulatory History
As a long-operating precious metals dealer, Lear Capital has faced regulatory scrutiny in the past. This is not unusual in an industry that relies heavily on telephone sales, variable pricing, and consumer education around complex products.
Previous enforcement actions focused primarily on sales practices and pricing disclosures, particularly involving higher-premium or collectible coins.
Regulators alleged that some consumers were not provided sufficient clarity regarding markups or product suitability. Lear Capital disputed aspects of these claims while resolving the matters through settlements and operational changes.
These issues date back several years and do not represent ongoing litigation. Since that time, Lear Capital has continued operating nationwide and servicing customers under updated compliance practices.
As with any precious metals purchase, buyers should ask direct questions, request written documentation, and take time to review products before proceeding.
Protect Your Retirement Savings
Free Guide Reveals How to Buy Silver & Gold with Your 401(k) or IRA
Pros & Cons of Lear Capital
Advantages
Lear Capital’s primary strengths include its longevity and national presence. Few precious metals companies have operated continuously for more than two decades, and this extended history may appeal to Americans seeking an established firm.
The company’s guided service model can also be beneficial for retirement savers who want assistance navigating self-directed IRAs, custodial requirements, and storage logistics.
Access to a wide range of metals, including gold, silver, platinum, and palladium, adds flexibility. The availability of a buyback program and a short order review window may provide additional reassurance for some buyers.
Potential Drawbacks
Lear Capital’s consultative pricing model may not appeal to cost-focused buyers who prefer the do-it-yourself approach.. Minimum purchase requirements tend to be higher than those of online bullion dealers, and some consumers have expressed dissatisfaction with pricing clarity.
In addition, while premium or collectible coins may appeal to certain buyers, they typically carry higher markups than standard bullion. Buyers focused strictly on metal weight and efficiency may find bullion-only providers more suitable.
Who Lear Capital Is Best For
Lear Capital may be a good fit for:
- Retirement savers who want hands-on guidance through the Precious Metals IRA process
- Americans who value working with long-established companies
- Gold and silver buyers who prefer personal support over online ordering
- Consumers who want access to both bullion and non-IRA precious metals products
For those seeking structure, assistance, and a more traditional service model, Lear Capital’s approach may align well.
Who May Want to Consider Alternatives
Lear Capital may be less suitable for:
- Cash buyers seeking low minimum purchase thresholds
- Individuals who prefer a fully self-directed buying experience
The precious metals market offers a wide range of business models, and different providers cater to different priorities.
How Lear Capital Compares to Competitors
Compared to other well-known precious metals companies, Lear Capital occupies a middle ground between high-touch service and product variety.
Some competitors focus almost exclusively on bullion and transparency, while others emphasize structured education programs or high-dollar retirement accounts.
Lear Capital offers a broader mix of products and a guided approach, which can appeal to certain buyers but may be less attractive to those prioritizing simplicity or price efficiency.
Companies like Birch Gold, American Hartford Gold, and GoldenCrest Metals have a similar $10,000 IRA minimum and may offer unique promotions to new customers. Comparing multiple dealers remains an important step before making a final decision.
Is Lear Capital Worth Considering?
Lear Capital is a legitimate precious metals company with a long operating history and a national footprint. Its guided service model, emphasis on Precious Metals IRAs, and use of established custodians and depositories may appeal to retirement savers seeking hands-on support.
At the same time, pricing transparency, product selection, and minimum purchase requirements can vary meaningfully from one provider to another. Lear Capital may be a strong option for some buyers, but comparing alternatives remains essential.
Frequently Asked Questions
Is Lear Capital a legitimate company? Yes. Lear Capital has operated in the United States since 1997 and continues to offer precious metals and IRA-related services.
Does Lear Capital offer Precious Metals IRAs? Yes. Lear Capital assists with self-directed Precious Metals IRAs using approved custodians and depositories.
Who is Lear Capital’s custodian of choice? Lear Capital primarily works with Equity Trust as its self-directed IRA custodian.
Where are metals stored? Metals held within retirement accounts are typically stored at IRS-approved facilities such as the Delaware Depository.
Does Lear Capital offer a buyback option? Yes. Lear Capital offers a buyback program, though resale pricing depends on market conditions and product type.
Is there a cancellation or review period? Lear Capital states that buyers are given a short order review period during which purchases may be confirmed or canceled without penalty.
Protect Your Retirement Savings
Free Guide Reveals How to Buy Silver & Gold with Your 401(k) or IRA
Lear Capital Review
Lear Capital remains a recognizable presence in the U.S. precious metals industry, supported by decades of operation and a guided service model aimed at retirement savers. For Americans who value personal assistance and established firms, the company may be worth considering.
As with any significant financial decision, careful comparison, written cost disclosures, and a clear understanding of product selection are essential. Taking the time to evaluate multiple providers can help ensure alignment with individual goals and expectations.
