Under most circumstances, if you cash out your 401(k), you will have to pay federal, state, and local income tax.

You will also owe an early withdrawal penalty - 10% - if you are under the age of 59 1/2.

In almost every case, for every $100 dollars you withdraw, you will pay between $25 and $50 dollars in taxes and penalties.

In other words, unless you are doing so to avoid bankruptcy, it’s a bad idea to cash out your 401(k) and pay off debt.

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401 k, Bankruptcy, early withdrawal penalty, income tax, News, Pay Off Debt