English philosopher Francis Bacon said it well: “A prudent question is one-half of wisdom.” When it comes to deciding where and how to buy gold, asking prudent questions can help you achieve your gold buying goals.
Asking questions is especially important now, in light of scammers who seek to exploit your interest in, and appreciation for, gold. Fly-by-night dealers and pushy salespeople alike recognize the appeal that gold holds for many people and are always looking for new ways to get ahead.
To help you on both fronts, we’ve put together the following seven questions to ask when figuring out where to buy gold. Six questions are for the prospective gold company, and one question is just for you.
If you’re dissatisfied with the answers—or, worse yet, don’t receive any answers to the six questions—it’s probably best to continue your search for a gold company you can trust.
Ask Your Gold Company…
1. How long have you been in business?
Why You Should Ask: Working with an established company means you’re working with one that should have a solid track record of reliability and customer service established. Such characteristics also make it easier to research them online.
While you're online, look for the company's social profiles including LinkedIn, Twitter, and Facebook. What kind of people work there? Is the company actively engaging with customers? Sharing educational information? Providing free insight? Keep an eye out for clues you feel good about.
2. Can I read reviews from real customers?
Why You Should Ask: Any company you do financial business with should be thrilled to have you learn more about the experiences of current and former customers—in videos, comments, forums, and more!
3. Do you offer a money-back guarantee?
Why You Should Ask: Plans and preferences change, and you need a gold company that understands you. For example, U.S. Money Reserve offers a “BuyBack Guarantee” that provides a full refund to certified coin customers within 30 days of purchase, as long as the coin is returned in its original condition and remains sealed in its container.
4. Are your gold products guaranteed by the U.S. government?
Why You Should Ask: When buying gold coins, nothing beats the confidence bestowed by a guarantee that each piece is fully backed by the United States government for its gold content, weight, and purity. That’s the kind of support you can expect for coins produced at the U.S. Mint and sold by U.S. Money Reserve.
There are other esteemed minting facilities around the world, like the Perth Mint, Austrian Mint, and Royal Canadian Mint, whose gold products are worthy of your trust, too. But if a gold company is selling coins from minting facilities you don't recognize, you might want to walk away.
5. Are you affiliated with any consumer protection organizations?
Why You Should Ask: Regardless of the industry, unscrupulous actors prefer lurking in the shadows. Participating in well-known professional organizations isn’t for them. U.S. Money Reserve holds an A+ rating from the Better Business Bureau, a nonprofit that focuses on advancing marketplace trust. We also received a “AAA” rating—the highest letter grade possible—from Business Consumer Alliance (BCA) for trustworthy and ethical business practices. They provide free services to consumers to learn everything they need to know before making a purchase with a business and monitor complaints, industry trends, and a business's competency.
At U.S. Money Reserve, we’re also affiliated and recognized by other distinguished organizations, such as the American Numismatic Association and Industry Council for Tangible Assets (ICTA).
6. Do you work with the Industry Council for Tangible Assets?
Why You Should Ask: Speaking of… the ICTA is a nonprofit association that supports the precious metals industry and its buyers. Philip N. Diehl, U.S. Money Reserve’s president—and a former U.S. Mint Director—serves as chairman of the ICTA. You can thank the ICTA for fighting legislation that could make it harder to own gold and silver. For example, in 2016 Diehl was instrumental in reforming the 2013 Minnesota Bullion Coin Dealer law, a law which imposed undue regulatory burdens on bullion and numismatic dealers and their valued customers. A gold company that works with the ICTA is a gold company that works for your right to own physical gold.
And finally …
7. The question to ask yourself: Should I buy gold online?
Why You Should Ask: Buying gold online offers several benefits. It’s one of the most convenient ways to acquire gold, as you can complete your purchase from the privacy of your own home and at any time of day or night. If you need help, you’re only a phone call away from experienced Account Executives.
We’re Ready to Answer All of Your Questions
Whether you have six, seven, or even more questions, call 1-844-307-1598 today. Account Executives are standing by to answer your call and all of your questions. With more than 500,000 clients and counting, U.S. Money Reserve is one of America’s leading gold companies. Others have bought gold from America's Gold Authority®, and you can, too.
