Lets put these awful rumors and innuendos to rest about 401 K's,
Chpr res..not sure where you're getting your info from, but IMO you did somehat of a disservice posting this topic and disseminating potential misinfo......why your DEC 6 separation date wasn't posted as such is beyond me, my date was recorded, but read below what Fidelity would have done to remedy it and should have told you the same if you spoke to them(FID) directly>>>>>>>.
Having spoken with an educated sounding fidelity rep today, all 401 k moneys are protected and able to be distributed, assuming you are eligible with tenure and vesting, regardless of U's situation. If U were to close shop tomorrow, Fidelity would eventually have on record a "date of separation" for each employee who lost their job..if it's not immediate notice from US HR, deliberate or not, and within reason, you call Fidelity, they will investigate the situation within a few days, and if warranted will allow you access to your moneys for withdrawal or transfers after 30 days from true separation date,which is the standard practice under normal situations of separation as well.My sep. date is already recorded per their records and I can touch this money any way I want after the initial 30 days has passed.
That there is the story, so no one need worry.At least not about this.