How to Get to Your Money Before Age 59 1/2

If you read the fine print on your IRAs, 401Ks, and 403Bs, you’ve probably discovered that the government wants you to use the money for retirement, and also that the government feels that retirement shouldn’t start before age 59 1/2.

But what if you want to retire before age 59 1/2?  How can you get to your money without that pesky 10% penalty that comes with taking money out before age 59 1/2?

Burn Your Taxable Account First

Your taxable account is your least tax-efficient way to invest.  Yes, it has its tax benefits, but these pale in comparison to IRAs and 401Ks, especially when you consider the additional estate planning.

Drain that 457

A 457(b) is a tax-protected account available to many docs who work for university hospitals.  If you have a 403B you ought to look and see if you have a 457 too.

Take Advantage of the SEPP Rule

The Substantially Equal Periodic Payments (SEPP) rule is the little-known exception to get into your IRA as soon as you retire.  You basically “annuitize” your IRA from the time you retire until 59 1/2.

Don’t Forget the Exceptions to the Age 59 1/2 Rule

Per IRS Publication 590, you can take out the money without paying the 10% penalty for the following reasons: – Unreimbursed medical expenses > 7.5% of your adjusted gross income

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