<prompt> Human: Article is here and it gives a shot out to this subreddit! I never in a million years would think to use my 401k to help with a down payment or renovation. Is there ever a good reason to use your 401k early?  <response>: Isnt it amazing how quickly we forget the past?I remember contributing to my 401k in 2008-2009. It seemed every time I put money in, the value of the account stayed the same or even went down. My nest egg lost a ton in the great recession, and there were a few years of volatility that followed.I am also gobsmacked watching the market, and Im enjoying my newfound paper wealth. But I know the good times will not last forever. 