I lived in the US for numerous years, but abandoned my resident status in the early 90s. I am a UK citizen resident in the UK, aged 52.

I would like to withdraw funds from my IRA. Am I liable for the early withdrawal penalty and/or any US taxes? Any idea about the UK?
Thanks in advance for any guidance.

International Social Security agreements, often called "Totalization agreements," have two main purposes. First, they eliminate dual Social Security taxation, the situation that occurs when a worker from one country works in another country and is required to pay Social Security taxes to both countries on the same earnings. Second, the agreements help fill gaps in benefit protection for workers who have divided their careers between the United States and another country. Totalization Agreements (http://www.irs.gov/businesses/small/international/article/0,,id=105254,00.html)