Retiring Early? CPA Explains How To Use A 72(t) to Escape The 10% Penalty | Bill Stecker (Part1) | 234
Aug 30, 2026
You won’t find a more comprehensive resource on the topic of 72(t) plans and substantially equal periodic payments (SEPP). This little-known IRS provision gives you a perfectly legal way to access your retirement money before 59½ without the 10% penalty… and almost nobody in finance wants to touch it! So, Jackie brings back the one expert that lives and breathes 72(t)s, William (Bill) Stecker, CPA and founder of 72tcalc.com. Bill picks up where he left off when he last appeared on the show in 2025. He further explains the nuances of 72(t) plans and how to avoid common mistakes. Hear how 72(t)s can be incredibly powerful tools for early retirees, laid-off workers, and anyone ready to leave the traditional “hours-for-dollars” trade.
This episode covers
- What a 72(t) or SEPP plan actually is
- Access to retirement accounts before age 59½ without the 10% penalty tax
- Why so many financial professionals hesitate to work with 72(t) plans
- The minimum plan period and why modifying a SEPP can become extremely expensive
- How to determine how much early retirement income you actually need
- The differences between the Rule of 55 and a 72(t) strategy
- Why Bill usually prefers moving money from employer “plan land” into “IRA land”
- How brokerage accounts, Roth contributions, part-time work, and SEPPs can work together
- Why inflation and unexpected expenses need to be built into an early-retirement income plan
- How splitting an IRA into separate accounts can
create flexibility and isolate potential mistakes
This is the first part of a 2-part episode. Be sure to follow the show and catch part 2 next week (9/6/26).
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RESOURCES MENTIONED ON THE SHOW
Free consultation with Bill Stecker’s Firm (The Marble Group)
- email: themarblegroup@wispertel.net
- Phone: (312) 361-0221
72(t) Calculators
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⏰ Related Episodes
72(t) Expert Tells All: No More Secrets About Early Withdrawals (Part 1) | Bill Stecker | 131
Cashing in on 72(t): The Goldmine of Early Retirement Rules (Part2) | Bill Stecker | 133
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📌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.