Complaint Review: American Precious Metals Exchange (APMEX)

Ordered $4992 in silver rounds and "junk" silver coins by e-check to be delivered to family member. APMEX withdrew the funds immediately. They then decided not to send the order, messaging me that they needed confirmation of the address to which I was sending the order.

I confirmed the address, then they wanted a copy of my drivers license, a selfie of me holding it next to my face, a recent bank statement, and proof of residency of the family member. I told them all they needed was my account number and routing number but they insisted on all this other private information. I replied that I preferred to cancel the order and take my business elsewhere. I cancelled the order online.

Three days later they still had not returned the funds. I called back and they said they had been too busy to act on the cancellation (they had not been too busy to take my money, of course). After not receiving a return of the money they had taken I called again. They then said they were going to keep my money for two months before refunding it. I still have not received an explanation or my money back. 

Please do your own due diligence in researching this company before buying anything from them or trusting them with your hard earned dollars. In going back to see what others have said about this company on other consumer sites, it is one of the most disreputable in the business.

Presumably the reason they offer discounted prices if you make your purchase by e-check is because it is easier for them to take your money quickly. Frankly, I believe the primary reason is that it is harder for you to get it back once you uncover their shady dealings. 

I strongly advise all my colleagues with investments to consider other brokers. I believe precious metals are a good hedge against inflation. Unfortunately, I trusted an untrustworthy and unreliable broker.