Millions of Americans are going down a dangerous slope with their retirement savings. More than one in four employees with 401(k) or other retirement accounts are tapping into those funds to pay mortgages, credit card debt and other bills, financial advisory firmHelloWallet said in a new report out this week. Most of those dipping into their retirement funds before age 59 ½ are doing so because they are struggling to get by. American families average only $4,000 in savings accounts. But dipping into retirement savings comes with a heavy price - and many of those who do so fail to realize the consequences, including IRS penalties and income tax on early withdrawals as well as any taxes on investment gains. "Workers are now broadly voting with their wallets and demonstrating that they need retirement savings for non-retirement needs, in spite of the large, punitive penalties that are associated with most of that withdrawal activity," HelloWallet said in the report. To continue reading, please click here...