Confirm your plan allows hardship withdrawals
Review the plan’s specific hardship rules and eligible reasons
Gather proof of the hardship
Show that the need is immediate and heavy
Show that the amount requested is limited to the need
Use all other available resources first
Complete the plan’s hardship withdrawal application
Provide required supporting documents
Explain why other funding options are not sufficient
Submit the request to the plan administrator
Respond quickly to any follow-up questions or document requests
Verify tax and penalty consequences before submitting
Keep copies of all forms and documents
Follow up until you receive a written decision