Hi, I am new this forum and have enjoyed lurking so far, and I'm finally getting some time to post my first thread. I really joined primarily to find the answer to one question, but I can tell already that there will be many more to come. My question: I read many articles that say that a 401K is available 10%-penalty free as long as one is 55 years old when leaving one's employer. But I also have read articles that state one does not necessarily need to be 55, but merely needs to leave the employer in the year one turns 55. Subtle difference, I know, but it can make about 11 months of difference next year for me. Which is correct? (I'm not really interested in doing "substantially equal withdrawals" method). Thanks in advance for your help and expertise.