Question: I had an employee stock ownership plan at an old job. I am trying to make a withdrawal but having trouble...?

I have haven't work there in almost two years. I just got a letter in the mail today telling me to go to a website and on the website it says "You are eligible to withdraw money from this plan. You can make your election from 11/06/2009 through 12/06/2009."

Investment Option Balance % of Total Share Price # of Shares
ORP Management LLC ESOP Cash $560.27 38.10% 1.00 560.27
ORP Management LLC Common stock $909.88 61.89% 366.00 2.486
Total $1,470.15 100.00% N/A N/A

Then, when I go to receive my distribution the only option I am allowed is a cash payout.

Account Balance Vested Balance Amount Available for Distribution
$1,470.15 $588.06 $588.06

So why I am only able to get $588.06?? If I kept it in there, would I be able to get more out next year or in future years??

Answer:

The best is really to call up human resources or the custodian of your account and say you no longer work with the company and you would like to withdraw or rollover your money into an IRA. Your stock may not be available for cash until you sell it - so you may have to put in a sell order before withdrawal.

You may not also be available for the stock for example if you did not work there for the vesting period or if it was for options. You might want to refer to your stock option plan which they normally give you in the beginning of joining the company or plan.

Take the money out now it's your money and invest it in a better investment. Good luck!

You are missing the key word "vested" the rest of the stock was contingent on you staying with the firm. You didn't, so you don't get it.