A Complete Guide To The Rule Of 55 (Case Study)

Most people think you have to wait until age 59½ to access your 401(k) without penalty, but that’s not the full story. With the Rule of 55, you may be able to start withdrawals penalty-free as early as the year you turn 55.

In this episode, Ari Taublieb, CFP®, walks through a real case study of someone considering retiring at 55 with $1.8 million saved. We break down what the Rule of 55 allows, how taxes still apply, and the key mistakes to avoid when using this strategy.
We’ll also cover healthcare planning before Medicare, how to think about travel and lifestyle expenses, and why tax strategy and withdrawal planning are just as important as savings. If you’ve wondered whether you have “enough” to retire early, this guide will give you the clarity to start asking the right questions.

At Root, we help people create retirement plans that go beyond the numbers—integrating tax planning, healthcare, and lifestyle goals so you can feel confident about your next chapter.

Interested in a custom strategy to retire early?
→ https://www.rootfinancial.com/start-h...

Get access to the same software I use in my videos and join the Early Retirement Academy here → https://ari-taublieb.mykajabi.com/ear...

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Time Stamp
00:00 - What is the Rule of 55?
01:00 - Case Study: $1.8M at age 54
04:09 - “Qualified Rich, Cash Poor” Explained
07:10 - You Have Options
08:00 - Ari's 401(k) Pro Tip
10:13 - Work with Root & Disclaimer
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PODCAST - https://earlyretirementpodcast.com/
INSTAGRAM -   / earlyretirementari  
LINKEDIN -   / aritaublieb  

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Ari Taublieb, CFP®, MBA, is the Chief Growth Officer of Root Financial Partners (Fiduciary) and host of the Early Retirement Podcast.

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Advisory services are offered through Root Financial Partners, LLC, an SEC-registered investment adviser. This content is intended for informational and educational purposes only and should not be considered personalized investment, tax, or legal advice. Viewing this content does not create an advisory relationship. We do not provide tax preparation or legal services. Always consult an investment, tax or legal professional regarding your specific situation.

The strategies, case studies, and examples discussed may not be suitable for everyone. They are hypothetical and for illustrative and educational purposes only. They do not reflect actual client results and are not guarantees of future performance. All investments involve risk, including the potential loss of principal.

Comments reflect the views of individual users and do not necessarily represent the views of Root Financial. They are not verified, may not be accurate, and should not be considered testimonials or endorsements

Participation in the Retirement Planning Academy or Early Retirement Academy does not create an advisory relationship with Root Financial. These programs are educational in nature and are not a substitute for personalized financial advice. Advisory services are offered only under a written agreement with Root Financial.