In most cases, distributions from a 401k, IRA or other retirement account before the account owner reaches the age of 59.5 are subject to a 10% penalty. There are, however, a number of exceptions. Some of the exceptions are unique to IRAs, while others are unique to 401k and other Workplace Retirement Plans.Generally, I classify these exceptions into one of three types: hardship exceptions, invest in your future exceptions, and early retirement exceptions. Our focus in this video are 3 early retirement exceptions that can help you avoid the 10% penalty if you retire before turning 59.5 years of age.