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Should I use retirement money to pay debts?

Short answer

Usually as a last resort, because of taxes, penalties and lost savings. Talk to a counselor first.

Rules differ by state. This is general information, not legal or professional advice.

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Official sources

CFPB: trouble paying debtsconsumerfinance.gov
HUD: find a housing counselorhud.gov
FTC consumer advice: debt relief scamsconsumer.ftc.gov