GoldStar Trust Company
3.78/5.0
Daniel O?Brien
5/5.0
09, Aug 2025
Consistent quality over time
Been using them for over 7 years for a metals-based IRA. In that time, I?ve never had a misposted transaction or IRS issue. They?re steady, careful, and understand the business. I once needed a special valuation letter?they created it the same week. Phone reps change sometimes, but overall reliability is excellent.
Zoe Patel
5/5.0
28, Jul 2025
Honest and practical team
There were no sales pitches?just useful facts and guidance. I liked their neutral tone. I had full say in asset selection, and they just ensured compliance. Even when I submitted an incomplete form, they pointed out missing parts clearly. Everything got done right. Trust them with long-term custody.
Marcus Li
4/5.0
16, Jul 2025
Real-time asset updates lacking
Wish the platform showed real-time updates. That aside, their services are good. I bought precious metals and a fixed annuity through my IRA here. The rollover and purchase process was organized, fees were disclosed properly, and reps were kind on the phone. They always verify assets before custody, which adds confidence. A little modernization could make them perfect.
Priya Mahadevan
5/5.0
03, Jul 2025
Helped correct prior custodian errors
My previous custodian messed up asset titling and tax forms. GoldStar?s team flagged the issue, helped re-title the real estate LLC, and ensured my IRA stayed compliant. That alone saved me big headaches. Support staff were calm, informed, and followed up after each step. It's rare to find a team that handles clean-up this well.
Liam Saunders
5/5.0
22, Jun 2025
Hands-on but not pushy
They give you control over your account but remain accessible when help is needed. I?ve asked about private placement rules, precious metals storage, and disqualified persons?all answered patiently. Portal is fine but a bit slow. I appreciate the straightforward pricing and no gimmicks. I?ve held three types of assets here with no major hiccups. Reliable custodian overall.
Ana Gomez
5/5.0
09, Jun 2025
Great for church bonds IRA
I wanted to buy church bonds through my retirement account, and they were one of the few custodians who allow that. The forms were specific but manageable. Their phone support clarified how interest gets paid and where it shows in the portal. All checks were posted to my IRA on time. I?ve had no issues with deposits or recordkeeping since.
Matteo Robinson
4/5.0
27, May 2025
Smooth but room for tech upgrades
GoldStar's people are friendly and processes are accurate, but the tech side lags a bit. It works for uploads and statement viewing, but navigation is outdated. That said, everything else?from fee explanation to custodian support?was handled carefully. Transferring retirement funds to hold gold bars and notes was completed without issue. Felt cared for during the whole process. No pressure selling.
Elena Dubois
5/5.0
14, May 2025
Detailed and secure handling
I was nervous about transferring my IRA to handle private debt placements. They walked me through the documentation, reviewed subscription agreements, and gave clear feedback. Compliance process was thorough and secure. I appreciated how they managed beneficiary updates and real estate forms as well. The portal isn?t flashy but works well. Fee disclosures were honest and accurate. I feel confident they?ll get it right.
Alessandro Harris
5/5.0
02, May 2025
Smooth multi?asset transition
Transitioned from traditional fund?based retirement account into self?directed IRA with a mix of metals and fixed income notes. GoldStar explained the reporting requirements and tax documents well. Got clear instructions for storage, trustee signatures, and allowed investments. No errors during processing. Team followed up without me needing to chase them. Phone and email support were timely. All confirmations arrived within the estimated window.
Sofia Miller
4/5.0
20, Apr 2025
Flexible investment offering
Opened IRA to include REITs and private LLC shares. Custodian handled the asset titling and provided forms needed for real estate. They outlined limitations?no single member LLCs, no checkbook IRA. Handled documentation smoothly. Communication was steady. Portal lacked some modern UI polish but provided needed info. Fees were fair. Support staff knew specifics of IRS custody rules. Appreciated ability to diversify and still have oversight. Felt supported but not over?sold.
Marco Jones
5/5.0
06, Apr 2025
Supportive for first-time investors
First time investing in self?directed IRA: they offered educational resources, video FAQ, and personal follow?up. Helped set up precious metals holdings and clarified IRS requirements. Communication was proactive?staff confirmed receipt of forms, guided storage selection, and checked in after transfer. No pushy upselling. Portal is functional. Fees were explained and match market standard. Overall experience felt safe, informative, and respectful. Learned exactly what?s allowed and what?s prohibited. Excellent for someone taking first steps into alternative retirement investing.
Amara Brown
5/5.0
25, Mar 2025
Transparent with assets & fees
Decided to include church bonds and crowdfunding notes inside my IRA. They clearly listed eligible asset classes, walked me through the required paperwork, and ensured custodian compliance. Fee schedule was shared upfront?setup, annual maintenance, transaction fees, storage charges. They explained fee structure (flat rather than asset?based), which gave clarity. Customer service checked in after each milestone, and online account allowed access to statements and forms. Felt thorough, professional, and easy to work with.
Kofi Jackson
4/5.0
12, Mar 2025
Informed and efficient rollover
Rollover from a traditional IRA to precious metals account was swift. Support explained storage options and depository selection, clarified purity limits, and provided certificate guidance. The online portal tracked each step. Had a minor query on fees and got thorough reply next day. Communication remained respectful and detail?oriented throughout. They helped with checklist for Perth Mint Certificates and structured notes too. Good value. Slight web form delay but did not impact the process. Overall satisfactory experience.
Zola Young
5/5.0
28, Feb 2025
Calm & Clear Custody Guide
Staff walked me through opening a self?directed IRA that includes real estate LLC shares. They explained prohibited transaction rules, checking prohibited persons, and UBIT implications. Communication stayed on schedule. Custody set up, asset titling and document filing with IRS were handled precisely. The transparency, educational materials, and easy access to forms made me feel empowered. Not overly promotional?just neutral guidance and knowledgeable support for alternative investment retirement planning.
Sekou Wilson
3/5.0
16, Feb 2025
Mixed experiences
Many staff friendly, but inconsistent knowledge about real estate IRA rules.
Nia Schmidt
2/5.0
04, Feb 2025
Waiting time
Phone hold times were long; call?back feature works but response not always timely.
Omar Roberts
3/5.0
23, Jan 2025
Slow maturity credit
Church bond payout matured and value received late?communication sparse.
Imani Baker
2/5.0
11, Jan 2025
Fee confusion
Received invoice for termination fee unexpectedly. Better disclosure needed up front.
Jamal Davis
3/5.0
29, Dec 2024
FAQs outdated
Some IRS rules page reference older version of code?info felt stale.
Aisha King
2/5.0
18, Dec 2024
Hidden transfer delays
Website said wire sent but bank delay added days without notice or explanation.
Kwame Johnson
3/5.0
05, Dec 2024
Strict asset limits
Capped gold purchases at $25k; had to split into multiple transactions?annoying.
Krish Howard
2/5.0
23, Nov 2024
Paperwork errors
Receipts unclear and duplicate line items appeared on my invoice?needed correction.
Diya Collins
3/5.0
11, Nov 2024
Customer service varied
Some reps were patient and helpful; others seemed rushed and less informed.
Rahul Lewis
2/5.0
30, Oct 2024
Transfer took ages
Gold sale proceeded quickly, but check didn?t arrive for nearly a month?poor follow up.
Kiara Jensen
3/5.0
18, Oct 2024
Communication gaps
Emails sometimes unanswered; support staff often refer inquiries upward with no timeline.
Nikhil Evans
2/5.0
04, Oct 2024
Static interface
Website interface feels outdated?navigation is clunky and updates are limited.
Tara Peterson
3/5.0
22, Sep 2024
Fee hike
Annual maintenance fee jump wasn?t communicated ahead. Felt caught off guard by extra charge.
Dev Taylor
1/5.0
09, Sep 2024
Missed notice
Never got notified when structured settlement matured. That left me unpaid longer than expected.
Sanjana Cooper
3/5.0
27, Aug 2024
Form confusion
Instructions on some documents are vague; had to ask twice for details on real estate holdings.
Kabir White
2/5.0
14, Aug 2024
Long transfer time
Distribution request sent, but cash arrival took over four weeks?much slower than I expected.
Neha Rossi
3/5.0
31, Jul 2024
Limited digital updates
Lacks real?time portal notifications. I had to call to check status after submitting transfer forms.
Vikram Jones
1/5.0
19, Jul 2024
Website glitches
Forms sometimes freeze mid?submission; customer support fixed it but problem recurred next day.
Ananya Schmidt
3/5.0
08, Jul 2024
Unclear billing
Annual fee increased this year unexpectedly. Not sure why rate broke from quoted schedule.
Scarlett Sowah
1/5.0
01, Jul 2024
Gave wrong info on call
A rep gave me incorrect guidance on contribution limits. When I followed up with someone else, they told me the opposite. Could?ve cost me a penalty if I didn?t double-check. They need to train their staff better.
Arjun Scott
2/5.0
25, Jun 2024
Slow response
Support inquiries sometimes took a week or more to answer. That delay made investment decisions stressful.
Caleb Setty
3/5.0
18, Jun 2024
Poor document tracking
Sent in the same form twice because they ?couldn?t locate it.? Found out later it was sitting in their internal inbox the whole time. That mistake cost me two weeks.
Priya Campbell
4/5.0
12, Jun 2024
Clean & usable website
Online account portal is intuitive, though occasional delays loading pages. Overall it?s easy to manage investments.
Zoe Mancini
2/5.0
05, Jun 2024
Transfer out was a hassle
Decided to move to another custodian, and GoldStar made the process unnecessarily long. They dragged their feet with the transfer paperwork and charged a full year?s fee even though I was leaving halfway through.
Rohan Miller
5/5.0
31, May 2024
Professional guidance
Support team helped with transfer from 401(k), kept me informed at each step, and never felt rushed.
Nathan Choudhury
2/5.0
23, May 2024
Didn?t warn about fees
I got hit with a $50 fee for a re-registration, and no one warned me about it. I checked the documents, and the fee was buried deep in a section no one reads. They need to be more upfront about what they charge.
Tristan Sanchez
5/5.0
18, May 2024
Polite and efficient
Customer support was calm and knowledgeable, forms arrived promptly, and the rollover process went smoothly.
Layla Gauthier
1/5.0
11, May 2024
Messed up my 1099
Tax forms were wrong. Reported a distribution I never took. I had to file a corrected form and wait for weeks for them to acknowledge the mistake. It caused a delay in my taxes. Serious lack of quality control.
Sienna Fitzgerald
4/5.0
06, May 2024
Straightforward setup
Account setup was simple and transparent, they explained investment options clearly, and fees were reasonable for what?s offered.
Ryan Malick
3/5.0
29, Apr 2024
Good people, bad systems
I actually like the people who work here?they?re courteous and try to help. But their tools and processes make their job harder. A lot of things could be solved with better software. They?re using outdated systems that create errors and slowdowns.
Quentin Kowalski
5/5.0
24, Apr 2024
Helpful and Clear
Staff walked me through paperwork quickly, answered each question, and made opening my precious metals IRA a smooth experience.
Madison Wagner
2/5.0
16, Apr 2024
Paper-heavy process
Everything requires a form, a scan, or a fax. It?s exhausting. This is 2025?we should have digital signatures and faster processing. Their procedures feel more like a government office than a financial institution.
Preston Nielsen
5/5.0
11, Apr 2024
Good for real estate IRA
Helped me title my LLC properly and guided funding process. Clear experience in nontraditional assets.
Anthony Varghese
3/5.0
03, Apr 2024
Can?t rely on their timeline
Was told my account setup would take 7?10 business days. It took 23. Each time I called, someone different gave me a different reason?one blamed the IRS, another said paperwork backlog. Regardless of the reason, I wasn?t kept in the loop. I had to call five times just to get updates.
Kyle Costa
5/5.0
29, Mar 2024
Knowledgeable professionals
Everyone I interacted with knew the asset rules and how to avoid prohibited transaction issues.
Sarah Kouassi
2/5.0
22, Mar 2024
Clumsy handling of wire
My wire was sent on time but wasn?t applied to my account for five business days. That caused a delay in purchasing my metals, and prices changed in the meantime. I didn?t get much help when I complained?just a ?we?re working on it? response. If they handle transfers this slowly, it?s hard to recommend them for time-sensitive accounts.
Julian Svensson
4/5.0
17, Mar 2024
No pressure environment
Staff never pushed sales. They focused on giving facts and letting me choose the asset mix.
Joshua Saxena
2/5.0
10, Mar 2024
Compliance confusion
I submitted everything they asked for and still got told I was missing ?supporting documentation,? but no one could tell me what exactly that was. After two weeks of back-and-forth, someone finally sent a sample form?why not just do that in the first place? Very inefficient, and I lost confidence in their process.
Colton Schmitz
5/5.0
04, Mar 2024
IRA diversification made easy
Found it simple to split my account across church bonds, silver bars, and an annuity.
Hannah Rossi
3/5.0
27, Feb 2024
Not responsive enough
I?ve sent several emails asking for clarification on annual reporting, and I never got a straight answer. When I call, I get passed around or told someone will call back. Usually no one does. It feels like their departments don?t communicate. The staff aren?t rude, but they aren?t very helpful either. This wouldn?t fly at a bigger institution.
Brooke Olsen
4/5.0
21, Feb 2024
Stable long-term choice
I've used them for years. While the process isn't lightning-fast, it's dependable and low-risk.
Christopher Bajaj
2/5.0
15, Feb 2024
Too slow to act
Every time I send them a document, I have to follow up a few days later to confirm they received it. Even then, approvals take forever. I once missed an investment opportunity because it took them over two weeks to approve a purchase. This kind of delay is unacceptable, especially when dealing with retirement money. They need to streamline their workflow or hire more staff.
Ivy O'Connell
5/5.0
08, Feb 2024
Clear customer guidance
Each step explained; support clarified IRS rules on prohibited transactions?helpful and professional.
Eleanor Mbebe
3/5.0
03, Feb 2024
Needs tech overhaul
Their site is seriously outdated. I can?t believe I still need to print and scan documents for a financial institution in this day and age. I tried to access my statement on mobile, and the page formatting broke halfway through. They need to modernize?fast. The only reason I?m staying is that the assets are already there. If they updated their portal and added e-signatures, it?d help a lot.
Hugo Davies
5/5.0
27, Jan 2024
Good value
Service matches cost well, especially for self?directed IRA investors needing alternative asset support.
Andrew Krishnan
2/5.0
22, Jan 2024
Hidden fees and confusing billing
When I first signed up, I was told what the annual fees were, and that seemed reasonable. But later, I found extra charges on my statement that weren?t clearly explained. Some were listed as ?processing? or ?handling? without any detailed breakdown. When I called to ask, I was told to refer to the fine print of my agreement. I went back and reread it?it was vague and didn?t help. Customer service didn?t really clarify either. They just said the fees were standard and non-refundable. I don?t mind paying for services, but the charges need to be transparent. I shouldn?t have to hunt for a PDF or cross-check with my original onboarding form every time I see a charge. For a retirement custodian, they should offer more clarity. I?m not saying they?re dishonest, but their billing structure makes it feel that way. That?s a trust issue in my book.
Eliza Goldberg
4/5.0
15, Jan 2024
Well organized
Forms are grouped logically and timeline expectations are clear. Just occasional slowness in queries.
Lily Rodriguez
3/5.0
09, Jan 2024
Needs better coordination between departments
GoldStar seems like a company that wants to do the right thing, but their structure slows them down. I tried to fund a church bond through my IRA and followed their exact instructions. But somehow, the paperwork got delayed because the transactions department wasn?t aligned with the compliance team. I was passed between multiple people, each with a slightly different take on what was missing. I even got different versions of the same form sent to me within a day. Eventually it worked out, but I wasted nearly two weeks chasing clarity. I think they need a stronger internal process, where departments talk to each other before involving the client repeatedly. They?re courteous and seem trustworthy?but trust only goes so far when time is wasted and opportunities are lost. I stayed, but I?m still frustrated by how hard I had to work to get my own investment processed.
Oscar Mancini
5/5.0
03, Jan 2024
Secure and compliant
Custodian protects legality of transactions, meets IRS custody rules?gives confidence for retirement funds.
Michael Rao
2/5.0
28, Dec 2023
Too many back-and-forths
I?ve had an account with GoldStar for just under a year, and I?m already worn out. Every time I try to initiate a transaction, I end up in a cycle of emails and phone calls. I had to resend the same document twice because one department said it was fine while another said it needed edits. No one seems to be on the same page. It?s exhausting. Their reps are polite but inconsistent. What?s worse is that I was charged a processing fee for a form that never even got approved?it was eventually voided, but the fee stuck. I had to dispute it and wait two billing cycles before it was refunded. GoldStar may be good on paper, but their internal coordination is lacking. I wouldn?t trust them for anything time-sensitive. If you don?t mind micromanaging every step, they might be okay?but it?s definitely not hands-off.
Maisie Jensen
5/5.0
22, Dec 2023
Careful oversight
They check each document, ensure IRS?friendly asset structures and keep details tight.
Natalie Popov
3/5.0
16, Dec 2023
Decent company, bad user interface
GoldStar itself may be fine for handling self-directed IRAs, but their online systems are well behind the times. It?s 2025, and their website still looks and functions like it was built in 2010. Forms aren?t fillable online?you have to print, sign, scan, and upload or email back. And even then, some of the fields are unclear. I lost time trying to correct a form that wasn?t marked properly. The layout is confusing, the navigation is clunky, and there?s no mobile-friendly version worth using. When I asked support if there were updates planned, they said it was ?in discussion,? which doesn?t inspire confidence. Customer service isn?t terrible?they do respond eventually?but why should a modern investment custodian operate on such outdated systems? I stayed because I didn?t want to redo the whole process elsewhere, but I can?t recommend them to anyone who values digital convenience.
Calvin Moreau
4/5.0
08, Dec 2023
Flexible asset support
Allowed to hold REITs and crowdfunding investments?good for diversification.
David Bhatt
2/5.0
03, Dec 2023
Overly slow service and clunky system
GoldStar may know the rules around self-directed IRAs, but they move at a snail?s pace. My rollover took almost four weeks due to ?internal review,? though I had sent every required document on day one. I called multiple times, and each time the rep would say, ?It should be done soon,? but nothing moved. I also had trouble uploading documents?the site crashed twice and then locked me out. I had to email sensitive forms, which didn?t feel secure. Their service reps were nice but had little urgency. I understand the importance of accuracy, but the lack of real-time progress and updates was extremely frustrating. It felt like they weren?t staffed properly to handle even a standard transfer. The worst part? No one apologized or acknowledged the delay. For a retirement firm, I expected more professionalism and accountability. If you?re considering them, be prepared to follow up constantly.
Freya Pavlov
5/5.0
26, Nov 2023
Responsive team
Phone and email replies came quickly, often same day. Professional tone too.
Victoria Sanchez
3/5.0
22, Nov 2023
Good intent, poor execution
GoldStar offers a lot of flexibility with what you can hold in your IRA, and that?s why I signed up. But flexibility doesn't mean much if the execution isn?t reliable. I submitted documents for a private note investment, and the process dragged out far longer than expected. They kept asking for the same information in different formats, which was frustrating. Even after I provided everything, it sat in review for over 10 days. Each call I made was met with ?We?ll get back to you,? but few follow-ups came unless I pushed. The note was eventually funded, but it cost me time and almost caused me to miss the opportunity. I believe they care about compliance, but they need better coordination across departments. The staff are polite, but I constantly felt like I was starting from scratch with each person. I?d caution others to prepare for delays.
Jude Weber
5/5.0
13, Nov 2023
Helpful for novices
New to self?directed IRAs and they explained all asset types simply and guided me properly.
Joseph Subramanian
2/5.0
09, Nov 2023
Delays made process frustrating
I chose GoldStar to hold precious metals in my IRA, but I ran into issues almost immediately. It took nearly three weeks just to complete the rollover, despite having submitted all paperwork on time. The team was polite, but response times were all over the place?sometimes same day, sometimes not for a week. I had to call repeatedly for status updates, and every rep gave a slightly different answer. One even told me my check was cashed when it hadn't been yet. The online portal didn?t help much?it lacks real-time updates and is difficult to navigate. I understand custodians must be thorough, but this level of delay made me question their internal organization. Eventually the account was set up, and the metals were purchased, but it left a sour taste. For something as important as retirement savings, I expected better communication and a smoother timeline.
Sylvie Silva
4/5.0
01, Nov 2023
Useful documentation
Educational materials helped me learn about alternative assets before investing.
Grace Fitzgerald
5/5.0
28, Oct 2023
Reliable partner for complex assets
I hold a mix of precious metals, crowdfunding notes, and real estate LLC interests in my GoldStar IRA. Their team has deep knowledge of IRS compliance and helped me correctly title each asset. They were quick to spot potential pitfalls and offered solutions without hesitation. What I really value is their transparent fee structure and the absence of surprise charges. Even when issues arise, such as delayed wire transfers, they keep me informed and work to resolve problems quickly. The online system could be more modern, but the personal support makes up for it. For anyone with complex, nontraditional retirement investments, GoldStar is a trustworthy custodian that truly understands the business.
Otis Schmidt
5/5.0
20, Oct 2023
Attentive support
Staff followed up after rollover, made sure everything was settled. Felt well looked after.
Matthew Agarwal
4/5.0
15, Oct 2023
Expert guidance eased my worries
Navigating self-directed IRAs was intimidating, but GoldStar?s team made it manageable. They patiently explained IRS rules, especially around prohibited transactions and alternative assets like metals and private notes. Their support was steady?never rushed or pushy?and they double-checked all my documents before submission. The portal is simple but reliable for viewing statements and documents. Fees are fair and clearly explained upfront, which I appreciate. Throughout the rollover and asset funding process, communication was prompt and professional. I felt confident that my retirement savings were in good hands. Their experience shows, especially in niche assets, and that gave me peace of mind. I recommend GoldStar for anyone wanting solid custodial services without gimmicks or sales pressure.
Wren Dubois
5/5.0
04, Oct 2023
Transparent process
Knew exactly where forms were in queue, received confirmation each time, no surprises.
Jack Turner
5/5.0
01, Oct 2023
Keeps you informed and in control
The one thing I value most is being kept in the loop?and GoldStar does that really well. Every step in my self-directed IRA process was documented, confirmed, and reviewed. I received confirmation emails, timelines, and status updates from real people?not just auto messages. My account contains physical gold, a private REIT, and a promissory note. Each asset was verified, titled, and funded properly. Even when one of my wire transfers got delayed by the sending bank, they notified me immediately and offered a workaround. Their portal is plain but works fine, and documents are easy to find. More than anything, I like how I still feel like the decision-maker. GoldStar makes sure you?re informed but never pushes or pressures. It?s professional without being robotic. I?ve recommended them to two friends already, and I don?t do that lightly. You stay in control here?and that?s the whole point of self-directed investing.
August Rossi
4/5.0
23, Sep 2023
Good fee structure
Flat setup fee and annual charges are transparent, easier to calculate cost than percentage?based.
Claire Martin
4/5.0
19, Sep 2023
Educational but needs faster support
GoldStar provided a great onboarding experience?lots of clear FAQs, video explainers, and even a personal guide when I asked for help with setting up my account. I appreciated their attention to detail and how they flagged a compliance risk in one of my investment proposals. They take IRS rules seriously, which I value. However, once the account was open, response time slowed down a bit. It sometimes took 3?4 days to hear back via email. Phones were faster, but I often had to explain the same thing twice. Nothing was ever mishandled, but the lag added frustration. Their pricing is fair, and I never felt upsold or misled. For someone who wants asset variety without pressure, they?re a solid option. Just wish support could scale with their growth. Overall, I?m happy?but I hope they invest in more staff or better email response systems soon.
June Ngugi
5/5.0
11, Sep 2023
Great for metals IRA
Specializes in gold/silver LPs, and they manage storage and IRA compliance issues skillfully.
Matthew Green
5/5.0
06, Sep 2023
Helpful when dealing with estates
After my father passed away, I had to manage his self-directed IRA with GoldStar as the custodian. I was expecting a nightmare, but it was quite the opposite. Their team showed compassion, clarity, and patience. They explained the beneficiary distribution process, provided step-by-step forms, and ensured that each part of the transfer was compliant with IRS rules. There were a few emotional days, but their consistent support made things easier. I was able to distribute the metals from the account and open a new inherited IRA in my name. No mistakes, no pressure?just a step-by-step guide through a complicated process. I really can?t thank them enough for how professional and understanding they were. This kind of service is rare in financial companies. Most just care about transactions, but GoldStar showed real empathy. It made a difficult time far less overwhelming. I now use them for my own IRA as well.
Felix Toure
5/5.0
29, Aug 2023
Solid custodian
They specialize in self?directed IRAs and it shows. Knowledgeable, professional, and consistent.
Rachel Klein
5/5.0
25, Aug 2023
Perfect for conservative investors
I?m not a risk taker, and I appreciated how GoldStar didn?t try to sell anything beyond what they?re meant to do?custody. I was able to set up my self-directed IRA with just a few calls, fund it with a rollover, and start investing in metals and a church bond. Everything they did was by the book. They checked purchase agreements before funding and made sure all titling followed IRS guidelines. They also caught an issue with my beneficiary form and fixed it before it became a problem. What made the biggest difference, though, was how calm and consistent they were. I asked lots of questions and never felt like I was bothering anyone. Their staff are clearly trained and focused on retirement compliance?not product pitches. I?ve been with them nearly two years now and haven?t had a single issue. It?s the kind of place that earns your trust slowly?and keeps it.
Audrey Ndlovu
4/5.0
18, Aug 2023
Minimum fuss
Minimal paperwork, electronic forms, and clear next steps made process low stress.
Ethan Walker
4/5.0
12, Aug 2023
Dependable but dated tech
Overall, GoldStar has been dependable. They know alternative assets better than most custodians. I?ve held private notes, a crypto trust, and physical metals?all approved without delays. Their staff understand compliance and are very detailed in their instructions. I never worry about tax issues or account errors. However, the website feels like it?s from 2012. It works, but it?s slow, and layout is clunky. Uploading documents is functional but not elegant. Also, email notifications about asset status are sparse?you sometimes have to log in manually to check. That said, phone support is always easy to reach, and I get clear answers every time. I?ve never been hit with surprise fees, and contribution records are accurate. If they modernize the interface, this company would be top-tier. Even with the tech downside, I?d still choose them for how seriously they handle asset review, document approval, and regulatory compliance. That peace of mind matters.
Sawyer Kouassi
5/5.0
05, Aug 2023
Information rich
Provided FAQs, clear guidelines about allowable metals and coins?very useful for newcomers.
Hannah Price
5/5.0
29, Jul 2023
Honest support through rollover
When my financial advisor suggested a self-directed IRA, I felt overwhelmed by the rules and paperwork. GoldStar made the transition surprisingly smooth. Their reps didn?t assume I understood anything?they explained every step, from trustee-to-trustee transfer to asset custody to reporting requirements. My account included real estate and a church bond, and they made sure both were properly titled and documented. I liked that they weren?t pushy. No one tried to ?sell? me anything. Instead, they offered facts, IRS references, and plenty of time to decide. There were no gray areas. What I especially appreciated was their follow-up. They didn?t just process my forms?they checked back to confirm the assets were posted, and asked if I needed anything else. I?ve dealt with companies that vanish after onboarding. This was the opposite. Even months later, they still answer my emails within a day. It?s a level of consistency I didn?t expect.
Isla Mbebe
4/5.0
21, Jul 2023
Friendly staff
Talked with support by phone and felt listened to. Tone was warm and helpful.
Oliver Rivera
4/5.0
17, Jul 2023
Knowledgeable but slow funding
GoldStar did a great job setting up my precious metals IRA. They explained all the rules clearly, reviewed my bullion order before processing, and provided written documentation confirming what was allowed under IRS guidelines. I really appreciated that they flagged a few items my dealer recommended that weren?t actually eligible for IRA storage. That said, the actual funding took longer than expected. From the time I mailed the check to the time funds were available, almost 11 days passed. That delay made me nervous. I had to call twice for updates. Once things were finalized, though, everything ran smoothly. My metals were stored with a reputable depository, and the statements arrived right on time. Fees were exactly what they had quoted?no surprises. If they can tighten up the initial processing timeline, this would be an ideal experience. I?d still recommend them for how seriously they treat asset eligibility.
Declan Kante
5/5.0
09, Jul 2023
Efficient transfer
Funds moved within a couple of business days. Happy with speed and reliability.
Sophia Lee
5/5.0
04, Jul 2023
Clear and consistent experience
Over the last three years, I?ve held precious metals, REITs, and even a structured annuity within my GoldStar IRA. What?s kept me loyal is how consistently well they handle everything. I?ve never had a single paperwork issue. If I send something incomplete, they notify me within a day, explain what?s wrong, and walk me through the fix. Their staff are never rude or rushed?just calm and focused. I also appreciate how all fees were laid out upfront. I?ve worked with other custodians who bury charges in the fine print. Here, it?s transparent. Their online portal isn?t high-tech, but it works. I always find what I need?whether it?s contribution history, asset values, or tax forms. I?m not an expert, and they?ve never made me feel like I should be. They make self-directed investing simple. It?s a relief to work with a company that takes its role seriously.
Mason Sowah
5/5.0
28, Jun 2023
Service across US
Even though company is Texas?based, handling clients in all states?service feels broad and well organized.
Harry Collins
5/5.0
22, Jun 2023
Trustworthy with my long-term future
I transferred my entire Roth IRA to GoldStar to manage a mix of precious metals and notes from a crowdfunding platform. That process took some paperwork, but their team handled it smoothly. What really stood out to me was how serious they are about rules?no shortcuts, no gray areas. They walked me through what?s allowed, what?s not, and why. They confirmed documents before funding and double-checked everything with care. Each call I made was answered by someone who actually knew what they were talking about. I didn?t have to repeat myself or get transferred endlessly. The account statements are clear, and their portal, while basic, gives me access to everything I need. I feel like I?m working with grownups who understand the stakes of managing retirement savings. No flashy marketing or slick sales pitches?just honest, methodical service. I trust them with my future because they earn it every day.
Willow Diallo
5/5.0
15, Jun 2023
Detail oriented
Each step had clear instructions; custodian helped verify bill of sale for real estate investments without fuss.
Emma Sullivan
5/5.0
10, Jun 2023
Made my real estate IRA easy
I always thought real estate inside an IRA would be a headache, but GoldStar proved me wrong. I had an LLC ready to go, and they helped ensure the documents matched IRS requirements. Their staff confirmed everything step-by-step?operating agreement, titling, and contributions. Once the property was purchased, they monitored expenses and made it simple to request disbursements. There were no compliance scares or rushed paperwork. Everything was methodical. Their knowledge on prohibited transactions helped me avoid common pitfalls. They even flagged one item on an invoice that might have caused a tax issue had I not known. I never felt like a number?there was always a rep to answer questions, and I never waited more than 48 hours for a reply. The portal isn?t perfect, but I could view all my transactions, forms, and contribution records in one place. I now have a fully compliant real estate IRA?and peace of mind.
Silas Nkosi
4/5.0
02, Jun 2023
Alternative investment support
Able to hold church bonds and real estate LLC shares in IRA?great flexibility.
Owen Mitchell
4/5.0
27, May 2023
Reliable custodian, slow website
I?ve been using GoldStar for a few years to hold metals and a small business note inside my IRA. They?ve been reliable and consistent on the service side?always sending confirmations, offering clear paperwork instructions, and reviewing each asset before approval. However, the online platform could definitely use an upgrade. It?s functional but dated, and sometimes pages lag or fail to load properly. That being said, everything else runs like clockwork. Deposits are posted on time, tax forms arrive when expected, and phone support has been helpful on every occasion. They also provided helpful educational materials when I added my first church bond to the account. I?ve never been hit with surprise fees or hidden conditions. If they modernize the interface, this would easily be a five-star experience. Still, I?d recommend them to anyone wanting to add alternative assets to their retirement portfolio with minimal stress and maximum clarity.
Penelope Adebayo
5/5.0
19, May 2023
Good communication
Received regular email updates and phone follow?ups. Felt like they cared about my concerns.
Chloe Evans
5/5.0
15, May 2023
Very helpful for asset diversification
I wanted a retirement account that could include nontraditional investments like silver, real estate funds, and a fixed income note from a private offering. GoldStar allowed all three. Their support team walked me through due diligence requirements, provided document checklists, and offered fast turnaround on approvals. What impressed me was their ability to work with different asset types while still ensuring IRS compliance. Some other custodians force you into a narrow list of choices, but here, I had full control. My account has stayed organized thanks to their quarterly statements, and the fees have been easy to track. I also appreciate how responsive they?ve been?email replies within 24 hours and helpful phone staff every time. As someone who?s cautious with money, it?s refreshing to deal with a company that respects that. No pressure, no confusion, just steady, clear help across the board. They?ve made long-term investing feel manageable.
Leo Rao
4/5.0
07, May 2023
Reasonably priced
Fees for account setup and maintenance aren?t low, but the clarity around what I pay makes it fair.
Adam Johnson
5/5.0
30, Apr 2023
Exceptional guidance start to finish
From the first call, the GoldStar team was clear, patient, and knowledgeable. I had zero experience with self-directed IRAs, but they didn?t rush me or assume I understood industry terms. They explained how alternative assets work in retirement plans, and walked me through buying gold coins and church bonds in a single account. What stood out was how they broke down IRS rules?no jargon, no assumptions. Every document was reviewed before processing, and I got consistent status updates. Their flat fee structure made it easy to predict costs. I also liked that they didn?t push any products or promote particular vendors. Instead, they focused on making sure my assets were legal and titled properly. This company takes compliance seriously, which matters when your retirement money?s on the line. I feel like they earned my trust the right way?by doing what they said they?d do, every time.
Aurora Bhatt
5/5.0
25, Apr 2023
Quick response time
Sent documents Friday evening and by Monday I had confirmation. Efficient and dependable team.
Laura Schmidt
4/5.0
12, Apr 2023
New account setup decent
Opening my account wasn?t instant, but it was painless. Had to clarify some paperwork twice, and online interface feels slightly behind. But once things got rolling, I found the team helpful. I?m now holding physical silver and a church bond through them. Emails were answered in a day. Good entry point for first-time IRA investors.
Theodore Subramanian
5/5.0
06, Apr 2023
Specialized expertise
They really know precious metals IRAs?explained storage, fineness rules and helped me pick suitable coins.
GoldStar Trust Company
GoldStar Trust Company has been serving investors since 1989, offering over three decades of experience as a Self-Directed IRA Custodian, Trustee, and Escrow/Paying Agent. We've supported individuals across the country in growing their retirement portfolios by providing access to alternative investments outside of the traditional stock and bond markets. Known for our industry knowledge, forward-thinking solutions, and attentive service, we remain committed to helping clients navigate their financial futures with confidence.
Address
1401 4th Ave
79015
Canyon, TX
United States
Website
goldstartrust.com
Email
info@goldstartrust.com
Telephone
(800) 486-6888
