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401k early withdrawal due to unemployment - ESD advice needed!

Hey everyone, I'm thinking about withdrawing from my 401k due to unemployment. Has anyone gone through this process with the ESD? What should I expect when I call them? Any tips or advice would be really appreciated!

I've been there, buddy. Here's what you need to know: • Gather all your 401k info before calling - account balance, recent statements, etc. • Be prepared to explain why you need to withdraw (unemployment in your case) • Ask about penalties and taxes - there's usually a 10% early withdrawal penalty plus income tax • See if there are any hardship exceptions you might qualify for • Consider asking about partial withdrawals or loans instead of full withdrawal • After talking to ESD, consult a financial advisor if possible Good luck! It's not an easy decision, but sometimes you gotta do what you gotta do.

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This is solid advice right here 💯 Wish I had known all this before I made my withdrawal last year!

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Quick question - do you know if the 10% penalty applies even for unemployment-related withdrawals? I thought there might be an exception...

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Good point! During COVID there were some exceptions, but I'm not sure about current rules. Definitely something to ask ESD about.

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whatever you do, DON'T withdraw from your 401k unless its absolutely necessary!! you'll regret it later trust me 😭

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Has anyone actually managed to get through to a real person at ESD lately? I've been trying for weeks and keep getting stuck in their stupid automated system 🤬

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Omg same!!! Its like trying to win the lottery or something

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I found a way! There's this site called claimyr.com that has a calling tool. It dials through the menu, waits on hold, and then connects you when a real person picks up. Costs $20 but totally worth it imo. Here's a video about it: https://youtu.be/7DieNd3C7zQ

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$20 just to talk to someone? Sounds like a scam to me...

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Nah, it's legit. I was skeptical too but it actually worked. Saved me hours of frustration.

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have you looked into unemployment benefits instead? might be a better option than tapping into your retirement savings

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Yeah, I'm already on unemployment but it's not enough to cover all my expenses rn :

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Ugh, that sucks. This system is so broken. Hang in there!

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PSA: If you do decide to withdraw, remember that you'll owe taxes on that money come tax season! Don't spend it all and then get hit with a surprise tax bill 🙃

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Anyone know if theres a limit on how much you can take out? Asking for a friend...

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Pretty sure you can take out as much as you want, but the more you take, the more you pay in penalties and taxes. Your plan might have specific rules tho

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idk about 401k stuff but sending good vibes your way OP! 🙏 This economy is rough rn

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