Q: I am CSRS with more than 30 years of service, and if I take a VERA before I reach age 55, can I withdraw money from my TSP without the 10-percent penalty?
A: Unless you separate from federal service during or after the calendar year in which you reach age 55, or qualify for another exception under IRS rules, you will incur the 10-percent early withdrawal penalty. Your service time or retirement terms have no effect on the penalty.
