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Asked 12/28/2007

How do I figure out what will be left over for closing my 401k early?

There is approx. $50k or so in the 401k and I'm way before retirement (I'm 31).
I vowed NEVER to close my 401k, but I am presented with a possible opportunity to purchase a 2nd home.
The home I'm in now, I would rent out and it will cover all costs and I would move to the new one.
I see this as taken the 401k and investing in real estate so I would be willing to liquidate it to make this happen.

What is everyone thoughts and aprrox what would I be left with after I get raped in taxes and the dust clears?
Thanks for you help!!

-Chip

 
 
 
 
 
 
Answers

Answer 1/3 - Submitted 12/28/2007

Can you make both payments if you have a tenant who doesn't pay? You would be penalized about 40%, around $20k. I have to say, it sounds likes a lousy investment. My friend is having her second home foreclosed for just the situation you are describing.

 
 

Answer 2/3 - Submitted 12/28/2007

Don't do it.

You have to pay a 10% penalty plus federal and (probably) state income tax. So if you will be in the 28% federal tax bracket (remember it's based on your other income PLUS the withdrawal), and 8% in your state tax bracket, then you will be paying 46% or almost HALF for the privilege. (Figures will vary for your particular situation, of course.)

No matter how you look at it, even if your tax brackets are a little less, that's a stupidly high rate to pay -- it's worse than payday loans!

You'll have to ask yourself -- am I going to make more than that in total return, after tax, on this deal, the first year? It's not 46% you'll have to make, it's 85% total 1st-year return to make it back to the starting line! (You'll have $27K left after penalties and taxes to make your investment with, and you have to make it back at least to $50K!)

If you're dead set on this real estate deal, find some other way to finance it.

 
 

Answer 3/3 - Submitted 12/28/2007

check with your 401k manager or call your plan sponsor.
you can stop the amount you are putting in, you may also borrow / withdrawal but you will have to repay it back. if you can get a loan from your 401k it is the best way to go.

 
 
 
 

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