This unique guide contains the clearest explanation you will find anywhere of the IRA and 401(k) early withdrawal rules. It is essential reading if you want to tap your retirement plan before age 59 1/2 and slash your taxes. People withdraw money from their IRAs and 401(k)s for lots of reasons : to start a business, retire early, repay loans or to cover major expenses such as college tuition fees and medical bills. However, it is important to have a good understanding of the rules if you want to avoid paying tax, including the 10 percent additional tax. Traditional IRAs, Roth IRAs, and 401(k) plans each have different rules – these are all covered in this book. You will also find lots of information about setting up a substantially equal periodic payment (SEPP) plan. These allow everyone to make IRA withdrawals and escape the 10 percent additional tax. It doesn’t matter how old you are or how you spend the money. Also covered are the rules for borrowing money from your retirement plans and what you have to report to the IRS. The book contains lots of tax planning tips and examples throughout.