Higher Education Exceptions

L1: Higher Education ExceptionsRegarding higher education exceptions…..
If aparent low interestloan was origninally taken in 2002 and an outstanding balance exists could it be paid in full using my 72T exemption (i.e without penalty). is this true going forward, loans for higher education can be paid later using retirement accounts (not already setup as 72T accounts)
In May 2003 I took 35K from one of my accounts ( I currently have 2) I now want to setup a 72T (I have read all I can on it and talked with a CPA((see note later)). I would like to take 17K of the May 2003 and pay for higher educatinal expenses and then take the remaining of the 35K as part of my 72T, taking the final amount in December (remaining part of 35K plus amount up to whatis annual periodic payments) This way I can avoid any penalty.
OR
If I choose to start my 72T in January due to increase balnce, increase rate and age… can I take 17K of the 35 and use it as a higher education exception and pay penalty only on the difference???
OR
I guess it comes down to what educational expenses can be taken when. Is it only what it is paid in that given year? For instance in above scenario, Could I take 9k of 2003 (last spring semester) 9k for fall semester 2003, prepay 9K of spring 2004 in Dec to total 27K?
Wher can I read more on this, is there a site for all PLRs?
Additionally!
Can you point me to or refe me to a CPA that is good at 72T in St. Louis…. I don;t think the average CPA is up to speed, how do I find a good reference.
2003-11-11 22:29, By: Alan C, IP: [127.0.0.1]