If you leave your job or are fired, you often have to pay the full balance back very quickly (usually by the next tax season), or it becomes a taxable withdrawal. Summary Checklist Before you pull the trigger, ask yourself:
Over 25 years at a 7% average return, that could have grown to over $160,000 . By buying a car that depreciates (loses value), you are trading a massive future asset for a shrinking one. 3. A Better Alternative: The 401(k) Loan cash out 401k to buy car
To get $30,000 in cash, you might actually need to withdraw closer to $42,000 to cover taxes and penalties. 2. The "Opportunity Cost" (Lost Growth) If you leave your job or are fired,
The IRS typically assesses a 10% early withdrawal penalty. The "Opportunity Cost" (Lost Growth) The IRS typically
The amount you withdraw is added to your taxable income for the year, which could even push you into a higher tax bracket.