Which question does each clock answer?
One owner-level history across Roth IRAs; a new metal purchase does not restart it.
Each conversion has its own period. Age and exceptions still matter.
IRS Publication 590-B (2025) · as of 2026-11-11
The qualified-distribution period helps determine the tax status of a distribution, including earnings. A conversion period addresses possible additional early-distribution tax on amounts previously included in income at conversion. Passing one test does not automatically answer the other.
The IRS expressly says the periods are separately determined. Calling both “the Roth five-year rule” without identifying the issue can lead to the wrong result. Start by asking whether the question concerns qualified earnings, regular contribution basis, or early withdrawal of conversion amounts.
IRS Publication 590-B (2025) · as of 2026-11-11
When does the qualified-distribution period start?
It begins with the first tax year for which a contribution was made to a Roth IRA for your benefit. The IRS measures tax years, not the number of anniversaries since a bullion purchase. A later change of investments does not restart the owner’s Roth contribution history.
A qualified distribution must also meet a qualifying condition. The IRS lists age 59½, its disability condition, payment after death, or a qualifying first-home distribution within a $10,000 lifetime limit. Completing the five-tax-year period alone is not enough.
IRS Publication 590-B (2025) · as of 2026-11-11
What starts each conversion period?
The conversion period begins with the first day of the tax year of the conversion. A separate five-year period applies to each conversion. The potential 10% additional tax generally concerns the distribution portion attributable to amounts included in income when converted, unless an exception applies.
IRS Publication 590-B (2025) · as of 2026-11-11
The ordering rules determine whether a nonqualified distribution has reached a conversion layer. Regular contribution basis generally comes first, and conversions generally follow from earliest to latest. The metal sold to fund a payment does not establish that ordering.
IRS Publication 590-B (2025) · as of 2026-11-11
Must regular contributions wait too?
Regular contribution basis generally can be returned without income tax and is treated as distributed before conversion amounts and earnings. There is no universal five-year lock on that basis. Establish how much remains after earlier distributions rather than using the current market value of the account.
Keep the first Roth contribution tax year, the tax year and taxable amount of each conversion, and all prior withdrawal records. Moving to a new custodian may change statements and account numbers; it does not replace the tax history needed to apply these rules.
IRS Publication 590-B (2025) · as of 2026-11-11
Request the provider’s information.
Goldco’s kit explains its offering. Confirm the custodian, metal eligibility, written fees and the tax treatment of your own transaction before acting.
Request the Goldco kitWe may earn a commission if you request a kit or open an account. It does not change what you pay. This is general information, not financial or tax advice.