Withdrawals from a 401(k) typically arrive within 3–7 business days after your request is processed, though the exact timeline depends on your plan administrator and financial institution. Some plans may take up to 2 weeks. The processing time begins after your withdrawal request is submitted and approved, not from when you initiate the request. If you're receiving a check, add a few extra days for postal delivery. Direct deposits to your bank account are generally faster than checks. Keep in mind that 401(k) withdrawals are subject to mandatory withholding for federal income taxes (usually 20% of the amount), and you may owe additional taxes or penalties depending on your age and circumstances. If you're under 59½, you'll typically face a 10% early withdrawal penalty unless you qualify for an exception. It's worth contacting your plan administrator directly before cashing out, as different employers use different service providers with varying processing speeds. Some plans may also have additional administrative steps or require you to fill out specific forms, which could extend the timeline.