 TITLE: What Is the Rule of 55? CONTENT: When Does the Rule Not Apply?\n-----------------------------\nThe Rule of 55 doesn't apply to any retirement plans from previous employers. Only the 401(k) you've invested in at your current job is eligible. Additionally, the Rule of 55 doesn't work for individual retirement accounts (IRAs), including traditional, Roth and rollover accounts. You'll have to wait until age 59½ to access those assets without penalty.\nThere's a way around this, however: You could roll over the funds from your former 401(k) and IRA plans into your current 401(k). Note that the process can be complicated, and not all employers accept rollovers. Before initiating a transfer, talk to your human resources representative and consult with a tax advisor to avoid unnecessary headaches. If you are allowed to make the transfer, all the funds in your current 401(k), including the transferred amount, will be available if you take early distribution using the Rule of 55. END