For many employees, Microsoft’s 55/15 rule is the ticket to early retirement. It’s not just a perk — it’s a game changer. Here’s how you can use it to step away early.

If you qualify for the 55 and 15 rule at Microsoft, you may be ready for early retirement. In this guide, we’ll walk through the steps you should take to make a smooth transition.

Microsoft doesn’t set a retirement age — you can leave when you’re ready. For some, “ready” means as early as 55, especially with benefits like the 55/15 rule for RSU vesting. But while early retirement can mean freedom and fresh starts, it also comes with some risks and trade-offs.

For employees hoping to retire early, Microsoft’s “rule of 55” offers some major benefits. This rule lets long-term employees keep vesting their unvested stock awards even after leaving the company. This can be a game-changer for your retirement income, especially when paired with smart 401(k) withdrawals.