"The long-term consequences of that are going to be very painful," she tells CNBC Make It.
You'll generally need to pay income tax on any money you withdraw, which could result in a higher tax bill.
You may derail your long-term retirement goalsIn addition to potentially facing a costly tax bill, cashing out your 401(k) may negatively impact your ability to meet your long-term retirement goals.
When you withdraw funds invested through your 401(k), that money loses out on the opportunity to continue growing through the power of compound interest.
On top of that, cashing out your 401(k) means you're essentially restarting your retirement saving journey.
Persons:
Anne Lester, you've, Lester, Ed Slott
Organizations:
CNBC