There are various ways to withdraw money penalty free from your TSP before age 59.5. In this video, we focus on two methods that allow you to retire early and still avoid the 10% early withdrawal tax.

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The Thrift Savings Plan (TSP) is a valuable retirement savings tool available to federal employees and members of the military. However, there may come a time when you need to access your funds earlier than planned. While there are many reasons for needing an early withdrawal, it is important to be aware of the penalties and taxes that come with taking money out of your TSP before the age of 59 ½. The penalty for early withdrawal is 10 percent of the taxable amount. Here are some ways to avoid paying the 10 percent penalty on your TSP early withdrawals.

First, you may be able to take penalty-free withdrawals if you meet certain criteria. The Internal Revenue Service (IRS) allows penalty-free withdrawals if you are separating from service at age 55 or older. This means that if you leave your federal job or military service in the year you reach age 55 or later, you can take penalty-free withdrawals from your TSP. Also, if you have a qualifying disability, you may be able to take penalty-free withdrawals regardless of your age.

Another way to avoid the penalty is by utilizing a TSP loan instead of a withdrawal. If you have an outstanding TSP loan, you can take a new loan to repay the old one without incurring a penalty. However, it is important to note that taking a TSP loan can have drawbacks, including interest and fees.

If you do need to take an early withdrawal, there are certain circumstances that may allow you to avoid the penalty. These include unreimbursed medical expenses that exceed 10 percent of your adjusted gross income, qualified higher education expenses, and first-time home purchases (up to a certain amount).

Lastly, it is important to consider the tax implications of TSP withdrawals. Withdrawals from traditional TSP accounts are taxed as ordinary income, while withdrawals from Roth TSP accounts are tax-free if you have held the account for at least five years.

In conclusion, TSP early withdrawals can come with a hefty penalty, but there are ways to avoid it. Understanding the criteria for penalty-free withdrawals, utilizing TSP loans, and taking advantage of certain exceptions can all help you avoid the 10 percent penalty. Be sure to consider the tax implications and weigh your options carefully before making a withdrawal from your TSP.