Hi,

What kind of documentation is needed to prove a hardship.

I am in danger of being evicted by my landlord. My credit cards are maxed, my bills and expenses for myself and my dependents is beyond my income.

What steps do I need to do to get this hardship proved and how long is the process to receive the money.

Thanks.

You absolutely must check with your plan administrator. The govt does not require employeers to allow hardships. But hardships such as education, prevention of eviction, and severe financial hardships can be allowed.

So go straight to the source. Talk to your provider about what is allowed under their administration and what is needed to qualify.

What you describe does not qualify as hardship under 401(k) rules. Your plan adminiatrator can tell you what you need to do. You might consider taking a 401(k) loan.

I agree with Scott as a loan to yourself is much better than withdrawing from your potential retirement fund plus you will not have to pay penalties and taxes on money you loan yourself and is easier to access.

Absolutely. If you can get a loan against the 401k instead of a withdrawl it is always the better of two bad ideas.