Rule 72(t) is an IRS provision that allows you to withdraw money from retirement accounts before the normal retirement age without paying early withdrawal penalties. It requires you to take substantially equal periodic payments (SEPP) for at least five years or until you reach retirement age, whichever is longer. Think of it as a structured way to access your retirement funds early in cases of financial necessity. The payment amounts are calculated using IRS-approved methods and must remain consistent throughout the payment period. Breaking the schedule results in penalties on all previous withdrawals, so it requires careful planning and commitment.