Although you may have the ability to borrow money from your retirement plan in the form of a loan, please proceed with caution! If you borrow from your retirement account, you may end up causing harm to your financial future.

Below are a few of the drawbacks to taking a loan from your retirement plan:

• Double-Taxation:  Unlike retirement plan contributions, repayments for loans are made on an “after-tax” basis. That means that you use dollars that have already been taxed for your loan payments. Then, you pay tax again on your distributions at retirement. Thus, you will pay taxes twice on your loan amount.

• Loss of Saving:  Most workers that borrow from their retirement plan cannot afford to pay back the loan as well as continue to save in the plan. Thus, they end up only paying back the principal and interest for the loan, and not saving for their future.

• Loss of Compounding Return:  The dollars that you borrow earn nothing for you. Most people who borrow money reduce their savings amounts and upon employment termination can’t afford to pay back the loan. These factors contribute to the loss of time and compounding return on savings.

• Repayment Upon Employment Termination: If you terminate employment, the outstanding balance of your loan becomes due immediately. If you can’t afford to pay back the outstanding balance, you will pay federal and state income taxes on the balance. An additional 10% penalty will also apply if you are under age 59 1/2. Generally, workers that borrow money are unable to pay back any outstanding balance upon employment termination. In addition, they have the tax consequence to pay at tax return time!

 

 

Securities and investment advisory services are offered solely through Ameritas Investment Corp. (AIC). Member FINRA/SIPC. AIC and Summit Group of Virginia LLP are not affiliated. Additional products and services may be available through Summit Group of Virginia LLP that are not offered through AIC. Representatives of AIC do not provide tax or legal advice. Please consult your tax advisor or attorney regarding your situation.