Which rates which dates?

L1: Which rates which dates?1. Re the AFR tables on this web site, do the 5/1/03 rates represent the April ’03 month? I need to start up a 72(t) withdrawal soon, and am frustrated by the abnormally low rates to which I’ll be tied for five years. I want to maximize my rate of return within the current regulations. Rates seem to still be generally going down, and likely will continue to do so for the next few months. However, they do bob up and down a bit within the trend. Assuming the 120% MT AFR for 5/1/03 was actually the April rate, can I wait until sometime in June to see what May’s rate was and, if it is lower, go ahead and use the 3.82% rate?
2. If I withdraw a penalty free $3000 distribution for excess medical expenses before I begin the 72(t) withdrawal this year, on what principle do I calculate the 72(t) SEPP, the amount of the 401k on 12/31/02, or that amount minus $3000?
Thank you for your help!!!2003-05-16 16:00, By: Rick, IP: [127.0.0.1]

L2: Which rates which dates?#1 – The 5/1 rates are the published rates for the month of May – if you start a plan in May look to the March and April rates in the table – the calculator is set to use the highest rate for the current month.
#2 – The amount after the reduction – actually you may want to use the balance as of the end of the month prior to adopting the plan. Make sure that you do the withdrawal beforeimplementing the plan, you can’t do it from the same IRA after you adopt a 72t – and it wouldn’t hurt to make sure that the IRA Trustee/Custodian is aware of what you are doing.2003-05-16 16:29, By: Gfw, IP: [127.0.0.1]