Why can't I liquidate my TSP early???

[filly]

I'm in the military, and I contributed to my TSP for a few years. I've since stopped about a year ago because I felt I was saving too much for retirement. My spouse and I have been maxing out our IRA's since I was 21. Anyway, I want my money out of the TSP, but I'm being told that I can't. How can this be? It's MY money. Sure, I expect a 10% penalty for early withdrawal, but to not be allowed to take it out boggles my mind. Is there honestly no way to liquidate my account? FWIW, I'm 31 and still in the military (10 years 'til I'm retirement eligible).

 

[Elgallo]

research/google IRS rule 72T. That may be of value to you. Others on this board may be able to explain it to you better than I.