LIRA(Locked In Pension Account)

[rollinon]

I have a LIRA(locked in retirement account), it's from a small pension plan. Is there any way possible that I can withdraw from this account? I am no where near retirement age.

[Bullseye]

No, that's why it's called 'locked in'. ;)

[gleberental]

although they are apparently sticky about it, it's not quite true that you cannot get at your LIRA until you retire...

"You may be able to gain special access to your Ontario locked-in account(s) if:
* You have an illness or physical disability that is likely to shorten your life expectancy to less than two years.
* You are at least 55 years old and the total value of the funds in your Ontario locked-in account(s) is less than a specified amount ($16,840 in 2006).
* Your locked-in assets exceed federal Income Tax Act limits.
* You are facing specific types of financial hardship.

see:
http://www.ontarioinsurance.com/english/pubs/consumerbrochures/applying_for_special_access.asp#c

i think there are similar provisions in other provinces.

cheers,
michael