A 401k withdrawal for a hardship is pretty simple. First, contact your 401k company, which can be done by phone or sometimes on their website. Let them know that you are experiencing a hardship. Hardships are pretty straightforward. The IRS defines a hardship as possible eviction, foreclosure, college expenses, or a death in the family. You'll have to fill out a form, and provide documentation of
. the debt that you need to cover with the funds. Usually, payouts can happen in a week.
