Should I cash out 401k to elimate unsecured debt?

My opinion on this is that you should not take out the money to pay off debt. Of course, this is totally a personal choice. It is so important for you to have a retirement.

Have you thought about your other options? debt settlement, debt consolidation, or as a last resort, bankrupcy. Since you are a member to this site you can take advantage of the free consult they offer. If you sign up for it, your debt coach might be able to walk you through your options. You will find it under free consultation link. Maybe they have some better suggestions for you.

I am just not a fan of using retirement. I just think it is too important.

I also am not a fan of cashing out a 401K--as there is a huge tax bite to deal with at the end of the year, remember. So in the long run, it's going to cost you more money. Is there anyway you could take out a loan against your 401K? I know that my plan allows this for different reasons and this would be much better than a cashout, since you're not going to be taxed and would still be making contributions.