Broker Check

Withdrawing from IRA or 401(k) prior to age 59 1/2

February 23, 2026

Tax Tuesday:

Withdrawing from an IRA or 401(k) before age 59½ usually triggers a 10% IRS penalty, but several important exceptions may apply. Understanding these rules can help avoid unnecessary taxes and penalties while keeping your long-term plan on track. Certain situations—such as unreimbursed medical expenses, disability, higher education expenses, a first-time home purchase, or employer separation-from-service rules after age 55—can allow penalty-free access to retirement savings. Knowing when early withdrawals are allowed can provide flexibility during life’s unexpected financial events while helping you stay aligned with your retirement strategy

Social post attachment 1