In This Chapter

Unfortunately, despite careful planning, unexpected events can arise that require quick access to money. Once you’ve used up your other options to get cash—your emergency savings, credit card, or home equity line—you may be faced with the need to tap your 401(k), IRA, or other retirement accounts to tide you through a crisis. This chapter explains what you can do to find that temporary cash assist and how to get back on track quickly after the crisis has passed.