<prompt> Human: Ive been working at my current job since I was 20 years old. Currently am 25. My job offers a 401k match of when you put 10 in each paycheck my company matches 8, which is really good. Right now I have a little over 33k in there. My wife and I have been looking at houses lately and while we have some money saved up, another 10k would do wonders for helping our monthly payment. From what Ive read online, some people think its a good idea, some people think its not. But most people do say that if youre going to do a withdrawal on your 401k, its best to do it early while youre still young, since Im no where close to retirement. I know all about the penalties and taxes Ill be paying on a withdrawal along with not being able to contribute to the 401k for 6 months. I continue to go back and forth on this question so I figured Id ask some people who have given out great information from my time lurking here. A few details that Im not sure if they matter or not - Were located in the southern Ohionorthern Kentucky area. Right around Cincinnati. Another factor is the fact my wife, my two year old daughter and myself are all living with my mother in law in a very small house with no privacy, which drives me to want to get out ASAP, although were doing a good job of saving money right now. If I were to go forward with the 401k withdrawal, I believe the best option is to continue to suck it up and live with mother-in-law for a few more months and when the time comes, do the 10k withdrawal from the 401k to have a really nice down payment towards a house well really like. Sorry if Im leaving out any important details but Id be happy to provide more information if needed. Thanks to all.  <response>: No, your 401k is an investment vehicle for RETIREMENT. Not for saving for a down payment on your house. I know so many people that have raided it for just this, student loans or other life emergencies. Once you start this it will become a slippery slope, your match is so good, and you havent mentioned your income but just save the 10k the old fashioned way, your future self will thank you. But you will probably take the loan out anyway so who am I kidding: 