Should You Borrow From Your 401k?

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Real Estate

Should You Borrow From Your 401k?

Pros:

l A 401(k) loan does not appear on your credit report.

l The interest on these loans is some of the lowest out there—right now, 3-4 percent.

l You’re paying yourself the interest, not some bank.

l You’ll get your money more quickly than a home equity loan.

l Since it’s a loan, you will not be charged the 10 percent early withdrawal penalties plus income taxes you would have to pay if you withdrew the money.

l You don’t have to qualify for the loan because in effect, you are the lender.

l No assets or collateral are needed to secure the loan.

Cons:

l You are forfeiting the accrued interest you would earn if your money stayed in the 401(k).

l The interest is not tax deductible.

l Some plans do not allow contributions to the 401(k) for the period of the loan.

l If you lose or quit your job, the loan is often due in full in 30-60 days (although some plans are open to renegotiating the terms of the loan. Find out before you sign the papers.)

l If you default on the loan, it is considered a withdrawal and you will owe a 10 percent penalty plus a hefty tax payment.