Full Show: Secret Rule To Access Your IRA Early and Top 9 Things That Bring Joy in Retirement | Clark Howard Video

If you want to retire early, this rule can help! Fiduciary financial advisor Wes Moss breaks down the often-misunderstood Rule of 72(t). Discover how this IRS exception can allow you to access your IRA funds before age 59 ½ without incurring that hefty 10% early withdrawal penalty. Also, Wes dives into groundbreaking research on what truly brings joy and purpose in retirement. Wes shares surprising (and not-so-surprising) truths from his latest study of over 1,200 Americans. He reveals the top categories that consistently lead to a more purposeful and joyful post-career life.

Plus, Christa shares your #AskWes questions and Wes gives his take. All this and more on the June 17, 2025, Ask an Advisor episode of the Clark Howard podcast. Submit your questions: link

00:00 - Intro
00:44 - Rule 72(t): Access Your IRA Early
06:57 - Ask an Advisor - Can I roll my IRA into my 401(k)—and should I? At 60, should I open a Roth IRA if my job offers no match but a pension? (Mark in Florida)
09:33 - Ask an Advisor - I moved 15% of my 401(k) to a reserve fund in 2019. Should I move it back into an index fund now? Should I lower my 401(k) contributions to invest in a Roth IRA or taxable account instead? (Chris in Virginia)
16:10 - Ask an Advisor - Why recommend the S&P 500 for young investors when it's not diversified? Would a total market or global index fund be a better choice than the S&P 500? (Ed in North Carolina)
21:25 - Top 9 Things That Bring Joy in Retirement
29:44 - Ask an Advisor - An immediate annuity pays 6.65% for life—what should I watch out for before committing? (Jay in Missouri)
34:20 - Ask an Advisor - Should I prioritize a 457(b) or taxable brokerage account if retiring at 55–57? How can I avoid pushing into a higher tax bracket when choosing between a 457(b) and a brokerage account? (Shawn in Nebraska)
39:00 - Ask an Advisor - Are there any situations where whole or variable life insurance makes sense? (James in Georgia)

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