Lear Capital review
Lear Capital is one of the longest-running doors in the sector — with a publicly posted fee schedule and a complicated history. We present both, plainly.
Our bottom line
Lear Capital is a long-established Los Angeles dealer (since 1997) with an A+ BBB rating, a $10,000 minimum, and a transparently published custody fee schedule. Prospective buyers should weigh that against its well-documented regulatory and financial history, including a 2022 Chapter 11 filing and multistate investor-refund settlements.
What stands out
- Publicly published flat-rate fee schedule
- Flat storage pricing regardless of account growth
- Low $10,000 minimum
- Long operating history (since 1997)
Pros
- Unusually transparent, publicly posted flat-rate fee schedule
- Low $10,000 minimum with predictable flat storage pricing
- Long track record (since 1997) with a full range of IRS-approved metals
- Insured, top-tier depository options
Cons
- Documented regulatory and financial history: a 2021 New York AG settlement, a 2022 Chapter 11 bankruptcy, and a 2023 multistate investor-refund resolution
- Dealer coin markups are separate from the published custody fees and have historically been high on some collector coins
- Has faced repeated criticism over sales tactics around moving retirement funds into metals
Fees & pricing
Publishes a flat-rate schedule: first year about $315 (non-segregated) or $365 (segregated) — roughly $50 application, $30 wire, $125 maintenance, and $110/$160 storage — then about $235/$285 recurring. These are custody/storage fees only; dealer coin markups are separate. Note: Lear's pricing on some collector coins was the subject of regulatory action (see cons).
Frequently asked
What is the minimum investment for Lear Capital?
Lear Capital's stated account minimum is $10,000. Always confirm current figures directly with the company before opening an account.
Is Lear Capital BBB accredited?
Lear Capital holds a BBB rating of A+ and is BBB-accredited. BBB ratings and accreditation status can change, so verify the current profile on BBB.org.
Where does Lear Capital store precious metals?
IRA metals are held at IRS-approved depositories. Lear Capital works with Delaware Depository, Brink's, International Depository Services (IDS). Metals must be stored with an approved depository — never at home.
What metals can I hold with Lear Capital?
Lear Capital offers IRS-approved Gold, Silver, Platinum, Palladium. Eligibility and product availability can change; confirm specifics with the company.
Sources
Facts on this page were compiled from the following public sources. Last reviewed 2026-06.
- https://www.bbb.org/us/ca/los-angeles/profile/precious-metal-dealers/lear-capital-inc-1216-13059407
- https://www.learcapital.com/knowledgebase/gold-ira/gold-ira-fee-structure/
- https://ag.ny.gov/sites/default/files/petition_6.17.2021.pdf
- https://www.michigan.gov/ag/news/press-releases/2023/08/04/states-recoup-overcharges-for-investors-in-commodity-firm-bankruptcy
- https://news.bloomberglaw.com/bankruptcy-law/coin-dealer-lear-capital-files-bankruptcy-to-corral-legal-woes
We are an independent publisher that earns referral compensation from some of the companies featured on this site, including our top-rated partner. This compensation may influence which companies we list, where they appear, and how prominently. Our ratings reflect our own editorial judgment based on publicly available information; they are opinions, not guarantees, and are not personalized investment advice. Always do your own research and verify a company's credentials (e.g., BBB rating, registrations, depository partners) before investing.
This content is for general education only and is not financial, tax, legal, or investment advice. Investing in precious metals carries risk, including loss of principal. Consult a licensed professional before making decisions.
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