This is not a wise option for most investors. Taking out the money pre-maturely (before age 59½) results in serious tax consequences. Your previous employer is required to withhold 20% of your cash for federal taxes. The withheld 20% is used to pay the taxes you owe for your federal taxes; however, you might have to, depending on your tax bracket, pay more than 20% when you do your taxes for the year you withdrew. |