And they are saying that I can only get 4,000/year for the nest 10 years... I'm in dire straits... behind on taxes, mortgage, insurances, etc... please what can I do.. I mean it's my money... why can't I get it all now... I don't care about the penalties, etc... this is a hardship case... please someone direct me in the right direction

Please be more specific - retirement money from where? 401(k) plan at work? Pension? If from a 401(k), are you still employed where your 401(k) is located? Also, how old are you?

I was working at hannaford and received a letter from the state saying I had some retirement money asstablished.I was wondering if I could take it out now cause of hard times.

How can I get my retirement now without quiting my job

If you're asking about getting money from a 401(k) plan - talk to either HR or the 401(k) plan administrator and see if your plan rules allow you to take a loan (preferred) or withdrawal. Most plans do not allow withdrawals by active employees, but some do if you are over age 59-1/2. There are also some pre-defined "hardship" situations under which employers are required to let employees withdraw funds from their 401(k), but keep in mind that both income taxes and early withdrawal penalty will apply.