<prompt> Human: I dont want to elaborate on details, but I have to get access to this money. I will clarify I am unemployed and actively seeking full time employment with the goal to have a position secured ASAP. The valuation is approximately 10,000.I am not eligible for unemployment financial assistance as I resigned from the position at my previous employer. I was not fired or laid off. My understanding is that I will have to pay federal and state taxes which I would anyways upon withdrawal when I retire and the 10 early withdrawal fee. I need the money vs the fee. Are there any ways to avoid this fee, such as rolling the account over into a Roth IRA then cashing out that IRA? Any help on the matter is much appreciated.  <response>: There can be hardship exceptions that will waive the 10 penalty. To be clear, this isnt a fee, it is a tax penalty, 