While you continue to work for the same employer, you have only a couple ways to get money out of your 401(k). One would be a "hardship withdrawal," which not all plans allow. You would have to check with the plan administrator (or your HR department) to see what they would require for this. Or, you can take a loan from the 401(k), and pay it off through your paycheck. The interest rate is something like 6% -- you might be able to get a home equity line of credit for a cheaper rate, but with the 401(k), you're paying yourself the interest.

Tax consequences -- if you get a distribution, the amount is treated as income on your tax return. There would be no penalty, based on your age. If you get the loan, there are no tax consequences unless you default on the loan, and then the remaining balance would be taxable income.