This is a fair, practical question with a real, specific answer. Most IRS-approved depositories (such as Delaware Depository or Brink’s Global Services) allow account holders to schedule an in-person visual verification visit, though this varies by depository and typically requires advance scheduling and identity verification, it’s not a walk-in, self-serve inspection.

What you generally cannot do is take physical possession of the metal during a visit, doing so risks the IRA being treated as distributed, per IRS guidance and the McNulty v. Commissioner Tax Court precedent on personal possession of IRA metals.

Before opening an account, ask your prospective custodian directly whether their depository offers visitation, what the process involves, and any associated fees, real, answerable questions rather than a vague promotional promise.