Is there a tax exemption I can claim since I took some of my retirement because I was out of work to be with my mother as she was dying?

[reneeswork89]

Will I still be penalized for taking some of my Retirement early?

[Opus 17 · Accepted solution]

Withdrawals from pre-tax retirement plans are always taxable.  There is a 10% penalty if you are under age 59-1/2.  

Possible exceptions to the penalty are listed here.

https://www.irs.gov/retirement-plans/plan-participant-employee/retirement-topics-exceptions-to-tax-o...

Unless you paid substantial health insurance premiums while unemployed, probably the only exception you would qualify for is the penalty exception on a $1000 withdrawal for emergency family expenses.   The rest of your withdrawal would be subject to the penalty as well as the income tax.