Here are comments that I received from Cometgold members about handling stock certificates in an IRA:

1) "I have been working with TD Ameritrade for about 2 weeks and today they called me and said they would do the certs for the benefit of "XXX's IRA". I get 4 certs free /yr. then $50.00 /cert. (I'm an Apex client) and they hold them in safekeeping. Be persistant and tell them you will leave , and you know they are doing it for some clients. Tell them you want to be one of those clients. I was very polite but stuck to my guns. I asked them if there was any other way they can guarantee me that I have legal shares, I'd listen to their proposal, but I didn't think they could."

2) "After reading XXX's comments on the Schwab SKC (Safe Keeping Certificate) program for removing stocks from being held in street name, I inquired of my present broker (Scottrade) whether or not they could offer the same service. I was told they could not.

I then called Schwab and spoke with one of their reps who answered my questions satisfactorily and filled me in on the details of the program. I filled out the Schwab applications on line in order to transfer my wife's and my IRAs, received our new Schwab account numbers, and am in the process of transferring our accounts over to Schwab which will take 5-7 business days I am told. Once this is accomplished I will enroll our shares in the Safe Keeping Certificate Program with Schwab as Custodian FBO my wife and myself (two separate accounts).

The Schwab rep confirmed that the fee is $50.00 per year per cerficate issued to hold them in safekeeping. When it comes time to liquidate positions one must deal directly with a rep over the phone to effect the sale. My commission (varies) will be $37.95 per trade.

Other than the little time it took to investigate and do the paperwork, it has so far been almost effortless. Hope this helps - Good luck,"