"The separation from service exception applies only in the year that you leave the employment (so it's available for this year, but you will need to decide if it's the best option for you before the end of the year.)"
Not true. There is no requirement that a distribution using this exception be made by the end of the year that you separate from service. If you qualify for the exception, the exception will also apply in future years for distributions made before age 59½. (Distributions made after age 59½ will be normal distributions that will not need this exception.)
