Generally, early distributions from a retirement account are income and you must report it on your return. Withdrawals may only be taken after a five-year waiting period after the first contribution.Roth IRA withdrawal guidelines. You can take distributions from your IRA (including your SEPIRA or SIMPLEIRA) at any time. There is no need to show a hardship to take a distribution. Roth IRA withdrawal rules: When are withdrawals tax free? How Much Can I Withdraw? In California, taking early distributions from a 401(k) also means incurring an additional state tax. Does California tax retirement income? In general, you're not supposed to take money out of your IRA or 401(k) before age 59½.