72(t) Expert Tells All: No More Secrets About Early Withdrawals (Part 1) | Bill Stecker | 131

One of the most frequent questions we get about retiring early is: 'How do I get money out of my retirement accounts before age 59.5, without paying the 10% penalty'? This episode answers that question and more with CPA and 72(t) expert, Bill Stecker. Bill is the founder of The Marble Group which specializes in federal income taxes and early retirement distributions. He's also the brilliant mind behind the website '72tcalc', hands down the most comprehensive resource we've found specifically focusing on 72(t)s. Cohost Jackie knows because she set up her own substantially equal periodic payments (SEPP) using IRS rule 72(t) in 2024 and will share some details of her first-hand experience. If you've been fearful and confused about how 72(t)s work, fear no more! In this episode, we thoroughly break down everything you need to know in a way you've never heard before. We also discuss more than a dozen other ways the IRS allows you to legally avoid federal tax penalties for early withdrawals from your retirement accounts. To make sure we did this topic justice, we turned it into a 2-part series. This is part 1, and part 2 will be released next week; both packed with valuable insights and practical tips for anyone considering early retirement.   ⚠️ Clarifications from this episode: IRS 'Rule of 50' for public safety workers who retire after age 50 are exempt from the 10% early distribution penalty. It does include EMTs (Emergency Medical Technicians), however, it does not include all doctors and nurses (see IRS code linked below or read this article).     For medical expenses, the 10% early withdrawal penalty can be waived without itemizing your deductions if the amount of unreimbursed medical expenses is more than 7.5% AGI.  (see IRS code linked below or read this article).   🔗Connect with us ☕ Like what you hear on Catching Up to FI? Support the show at "Buy Me a Coffee"  🎙️We love hearing from you! Record a Voice Message with your feedback or question Record a Voice Message with your feedback or question   ===  THANK YOU TO OUR SPONSOR  === 📈 Boldin (formerly NewRetirement) is our newest sponsor!  Boldin is retirement planning software that's like having a financial advisor at your fingertips. You can get started with the free version or choose the premium option (PlannerPlus) and get a 14-day free trial. Be sure to use this link to get started:  Go.boldin.com/catchingup For a full list of our partners, sponsors and affiliates, click here: catchinguptofi.com/our-partners   RESOURCES MENTIONED ON THE SHOW: 🌐72tcalc.com Website Free consultation with Bill Stecker's Firm- The Marble Group email: [email protected] Phone: (312) 361-0221 Jackie's review of 72tcalc.com website Most recent IRS list of exceptions to 10% tax penalty on early withdrawals IRS Tax Code 72(t)- Substantially Equal Periodic Payments (SEPP) IRS Single Life Table- Effective 1/1/2022 IRS website with the listing of recent interest rates (120% of Applicable Federal Midterm Rate) IRA first time homebuyer exception (you are considered a first-timer if you haven't owned a primary home the past 2 years) Rule 72(t) Example- Eric Cooper Rule 72(t) Example- Dare to Draw Down   📱72(t) CALCULATORS FI Tax Guy Google Sheet  Dinkytown CalcXML 72tcalc  72net   If you enjoyed this episode, please follow the show on your podcast player and leave us a rating or review. If you want to watch, be sure to subscribe to our YouTube Channel. This helps others find the show and keeps us creating great content for you!   ⚠️Disclaimer: Our content is for general education and information purposes only. We are not providing financial, legal, or tax advice. Always do your own research or consult a professional before making important decisions.