One-Third of Americans Withdraw 401(k) Balances After Job Changes—What Is Driving This Trend?

Key Takeaways One-third of individuals who left a job withdrew their balance in a lump sum rather than rolling it over to their new job or another account. Cashing out before age 59 1/2 incurs a 10% early withdrawal penalty for most people, and income taxes must be paid for the withdrawal. Retirement savers are generally putting more into their 401(k) accounts these days, but much of the money Americans are saving for their future doesn’t end up lasting until then. That's because a large portion of ...