cashing out 403b

I know, I know, there's a million articles about not doing this kind of thing, but in the face of all that wisdom, I believe i have a unique circumstance and want to cash out my 403b. I want to know the best way to get my money and appreciate any advice.

My 403b is with Vanguard, and on their site it only gives me 5 options for withdrawing my funds, none of which i qualify for. They are Retirement, Hardships, Attaining age 591/2, Roth Attaining age 591/2, and Roth Hardship Withdrawel. Am I precluded from withdrawing my money under the rules of a 403b?

I left my employer in July 08 and moved to England. I don't expect to have any US income in 2009 and my foreign earned income will only be £43K and thus not taxed. I have $22,000 in my 403b, so if that is my only taxable income in 2009, I should be in a low tax bracket.

I essentially want to use the money to pay off $15K in high-interest credit card debt. I've been paying it off at steady clip since last August, but want to be finished with having money in two countries, two currencies, etc.

I read somewhere that I may have to rollover the 403b to a rollover ira before I can cash it out, but am unsure of the rules.

Thanks for your help.

-Brian

Bch820,

Leaving the employer should make your 403b available to you also.
You may need to talk with Vanguard to find out how you can do that.

You should have access to a copy of the 403b Summary Plan. Included in the plan would be the conditions under which you can remove your assets from the plan. This may be available on line or the plan administrator can mail a copy to you.

Worst case would be moving the funds to a TIRA, and then cashing the IRA.

Talk to a Vanguard rep.