I have a 403(b) retirement plan and I am having a hard time understanding the difference in ending balance and vested balance. My newest statement states that my ending balance is 42,086.76, but my total vested balance is 85,355.01. I have been employed here for almost 17 years and my employer offers a match. If I were to cash it out now for example, how much would I receive at this point?? I understand it is subject to tax and an early withdrawl fee.

Are you sure it's not the other way around? Total is usually more than vested. For example, you put in $X. Company adds $Y. At the end of the year you have all X and, depending on the plan, only part of Y. The company want you to stay around so their money is like the carrot on a stick. Some company matches are totally vested on retirement, some at other times. If the balance are as your statement shows, I would ask HR to explain.