Considering a 401(k) Hardship Withdrawal? Here's What You Should Know
If you’re facing financial hardship and considering withdrawing funds early from your 401(k), you may be eligible for what’s known as a hardship distribution — but there are strict rules you’ll need to meet.
✅ What Qualifies as a Hardship?
To qualify, the withdrawal must be due to an immediate and heavy financial need, and you can only withdraw the amount necessary to cover that need. Hardship distributions can also cover the needs of your spouse, dependent, or designated beneficiary, thanks to provisions under the Pension Protection Act of 2006.
Common qualifying expenses include:
Medical expenses for you or a family member
Costs to purchase your primary residence
Tuition and school-related expenses
Payments to prevent foreclosure or eviction
Funeral and burial expenses
Major home repairs due to damage
Losses or costs from a federally declared disaster (if your home or job is in the impacted area)
🚫 What Doesn’t Count as a Hardship?
Expenses like buying a boat, luxury goods, or non-essential electronics (such as a new TV) typically do not qualify — even if they were planned or expected.
🔍 Key Rules & Considerations
You must first exhaust other available resources, including savings or jointly owned property with a spouse
Assets held in certain trusts or under the Uniform Gifts to Minors Act don’t count as your resources
You may need to take distributions from other employer-sponsored retirement plans first
401(k) loans may no longer be required before a hardship withdrawal, depending on your plan (a rule change effective in 2019)
You can withdraw enough to cover taxes and penalties triggered by the distribution
📌 Final Tip:
Hardship rules can vary by plan, so always consult your plan administrator to fully understand what’s allowed before you take action.
📅 Schedule a free consultation or case investigation:
www.assistancetaxrelief.com/appointments
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