| Most 401(k) plans do not allow withdrawals by active employees, unless you are using the funds for a particular "hardship" purpose. The various hardships under which your plan must allow you to withdraw funds are:
1. Un-reimbursed medical expenses for you, your spouse, or dependents.
2. Purchase of an employee's principal residence.
3. Payment of college tuition and related educational fees and expense such as room and board for the next 12 months for you, your spouse, dependents, or children who are no longer dependents.
4. Payments necessary to prevent eviction of you from your home, or foreclosure on the mortgage of your principal residence.
5. Funeral expenses
6. Repair of a primary residence.
If you need funds for other purpses, you may be able to borrow up to half the value of your account. This is probably a better approach than taking a withdrawal, as there are no income tax or early withdrawal penalties involved. Talk to your plan administrator and see if your plan has this option. |