Lost job and took out retirement money can i get a tax break?

[VolvoGirl]

If you are over 55 you can avoid the 10% Early Withdrawal Penalty on it.  But otherwise, no.

[rolindo]

Yes, I'm over 55. What document would I have to five to qualify for the exemption?

[VolvoGirl]

Just fill out your return.  It knows your age.  Turbo Tax will ask you if you have any exceptions to the penalty.  You don’t need any else for it.

[SweetieJean]

In most cases, you will owe Federal and State taxes. You will also owe a 10% Federal penalty, unless you meet one of the exceptions listed here:

https://www.irs.gov/retirement-plans/plan-participant-employee/retirement-topics-tax-on-early-distri...

Also note that Unemployment benefits are taxable for Federal, as well as in some states.