The average American’s defined contribution plan retirement savings rate is at an all-time high, according to Vanguard data. Yet at the same time, more Americans are tapping their 401(k)s or similar plans for emergencies. In 2024, 4.8% of plan participants took hardship withdrawals, up from 3.6% in 2023 and 2.8% in 2022, according to Vanguard. Be Aware: Dave Ramsey: The Biggest 401(k) Mistake People Make Check Out: 6 Big Shakeups Coming to Social Security in 2025 So what is driving these hardship withdraw ...