Definitions for "Early distribution"
Distributions taken from a Traditional or Roth IRA before age 59½. Early distributions (also called pre-mature distributions) are subject to a 10% early distribution penalty unless an exception applies.
Taxable distributions (and certain deemed distributions) are subject to ordinary income tax and, if taken prior to age 59 ½, may also be subject to a 10 % federal income tax penalty. Typically, early distributions are penalized unless the distribution is on account of death, disability or is part of a series of equivalent payments. An early distribution is also called a Premature Distribution.
Distributions taken from a Traditional or Roth IRA before age 59½ are called early distributions. Early distributions are usually subject to a 10% early distribution penalty, unless an exception applies.