# Think twice before raiding retirement savings

> Financial advisors warn that withdrawing from a 401(k) or IRA for unexpected expenses carries hidden tax costs beyond the amount you take out.
- Title: Think twice before raiding retirement savings · CNBC
- Summary: Financial advisors warn that withdrawing from a 401(k) or IRA for unexpected expenses carries hidden tax costs beyond the amount you take out.
- Keywords: 401k withdrawals, ira withdrawals, retirement savings, tax implications, financial planning, CNBC
- Source: CNBC — https://cnbc.com/2026/11/13/retirement-401k-ira-withdrawal-taxes.html
- Author: Sarah Agostino
- Published: 2026-11-13T19:00:10+00:00
- Read time: 1 min
- Topics: 401k withdrawals, ira withdrawals, retirement savings, tax implications, financial planning, business, finance
## The hidden cost of tapping retirement
Retirees facing large unplanned expenses often turn to traditional 401(k) or IRA balances. But financial advisors warn withdrawals carry tax implications beyond owing taxes on the money withdrawn.
## It's not as simple as you think
Certified financial planner Victoria Trumbower of Trumbower Financial Advisors in Bethesda, Maryland says withdrawing is more complex than taking out what you need.

> Be aware of the fact that it's not as simple as just taking out the amount of money that [covers] what you want it for.
## Consider other options first
Before making one-off withdrawals from retirement accounts, advisors recommend strategizing how you tap your nest egg to reduce tax impact and exploring other ways to cover unplanned expenses.
## Key takeaway

Retirees should consider tax implications and alternatives before withdrawing from retirement accounts for one-off expenses, advisors say.