My unemployment benefits have expired and although I've applied for hundreds of jobs (really), cannot find re-employment. I have absolutely no income and was going to take a ride to NYS Dept of Social Services to see if I could get food stamps, medical coverage and financial assistance. Will having a 401k prevent me from getting financial assistance? I searched the Internet and asked everyone I know and get mixed answers. With the tax penalties for 401k withdrawals at 40% and no breaks offered to people in financial hardships, how can I be forced to draw from that money? Any information would be appreciated.