Whether you're between jobs, trying to keep up with the rising cost of food and gas or looking to make a big purchase.  It's the principle of compounded interest that Ritter says is key.  For example, let's say you’re 30 and have $5,000 dollars in a 401K.  If you cash it out today, you’ll net only $3,100 after penalties.  But leave it where it is and when you retire, that money will be worth about $74,000.

“To raid it prematurely certainly creates a number of problems down the road," Ritter said.  Ritter says you should exhaust all other options before touching your 401K.  And advisors say don't panic when you see your 401k shrink during a slow market... Like we're seeing now.

“Whether there is good times and bad times, we're going to be in it for the long term and you'll be rewarded successfully,” Ritter said.