A method of decoding a turbo product code (TPC) code word comprises iteratively decoding the TPC code word using an iterative decoder. The method further comprises terminating the iterative decoding when the TPC code word satisfies a cyclic redundancy check (CRC). The TPC code word can include a plurality of square code blocks of user data, with CRC data bits appended to one of the plurality of code blocks instead of replacing user data within the code blocks. Apparatus for implementing the method are also provided.