Thinking about accessing your retirement savings early? The IRS’s Substantially Equal Periodic Payments (SEPP) rule lets you withdraw funds from your IRA or 401(k) before age 59½ without paying the usual 10% penalty—if you commit to taking equal payments over a set period. Learn how SEPP works, the strict rules you must follow, and why it could be a smart option for early retirees or those needing early access to funds.