401(k) Loan vs HELOC: Which Loan Is Better in 2024?

By: Peter Warden Updated By: Ryan Tronier Reviewed By: Paul Centopani
January 11, 2024 - 12 min read

Is it better to get a HELOC or 401(k) loan?

Trying to decide between a 401(k) loan vs HELOC? A HELOC is almost always better than a 401(k) loan. Both options let you borrow money “from yourself,” but they’re very different in practice.

A home equity line of credit (HELOC) borrows from your property value. By contrast, the money in your 401(k) is actively working for you by accruing interest over time. Cashing those funds out means a serious setback in your retirement savings.

As long as you can qualify for a HELOC, that’s likely to be your best option.

Verify your HELOC eligibility. Start here


In this article (Skip to...)


401(k) loan vs HELOC comparison

Here are some of the main features of a 401(k) loan vs. a HELOC. We’ll dig deeper into the pros and cons of both loan types below.

Compare cash-back loan options. Start here

HELOC401(k) Loan
Loan Limit80%-85% of home value$50,000 maximum
Repayment Term10-20 years5 years
Interest RatesSlightly higherSlightly lower
Type of PayoutReusable credit lineOne-time lump sum
Biggest BenefitBorrow a large sum at a low rate; won't impact your retirementMay be available if you don't have enough equity for a HELOC
Biggest DrawbackRisk of foreclosure if you can't make paymentsSerious setback in your retirement savings

A HELOC is almost always better than a 401(k) loan

Let’s sum up why a home equity line of credit almost always wins in the 401(k) loan vs. HELOC fight.

Verify your HELOC eligibility. Start here

  • You are not risking your future comfort and security during retirement
  • You can take longer to repay your loan than with a 401(k) loan, making each monthly payment smaller
  • The loan is flexible; you can borrow, repay, and reborrow at will during the HELOC draw period
  • You pay interest only on your outstanding balance; if you borrow nothing, you pay nothing
  • You may be able to fix your mortgage rate on some or all of your HELOC borrowing
  • Should be offered a lower interest rate compared with most other types of loans

Of course, there are some drawbacks. Most importantly, you must be a homeowner; you must have built up enough home equity to qualify for a HELOC; and you need a good credit score, usually 680-700 or higher.

What is a 401(k) loan?

A 401(k) loan is a type of loan that allows you to borrow money from your 401(k) retirement savings account. A 401(k) is a retirement plan typically offered by employers in the United States.

Each employer gets to set its program’s rules. Your employer and account provider may or may not allow loans and early withdrawals; for those that do, rules and loan terms can vary.

Verify your HELOC eligibility. Start here

How do 401(k) loans work?

Assuming you’re allowed to borrow from your 401(k) and have sufficient funds saved, you can borrow up to 50% of your plan’s vested balance or $50,000, whichever is less. If your plan’s balance is less than $10,000, you may be able to borrow a larger proportion.

Borrowers must repay the loan, including interest, usually within five years. Repayments are made through payroll deductions. The interest charged on the loan is often lower compared to other loans, and it goes back into the borrower’s 401(k) account. If the loan is not repaid as agreed, it may be considered a distribution, subjecting the borrower to taxes and potential penalties.

Whatever your employer’s rules say, you must repay your debt in full within five years — unless you’re using the loan to buy a home, which must be your principal residence. And you must make at least one payment each quarter. If you fail to meet either of those requirements, the IRS will likely declare your loan a withdrawal and you’ll get a large tax bill and have to pay early withdrawal penalties.

Pros and Cons of 401(k) loans

Pros

401(k) loans really have only three advantages compared to HELOCs.

  1. They tend to have ultra-low interest rates
  2. They don’t require credit checks or other barriers to approval
  3. They don’t require you to be a homeowner or have equity
Verify your HELOC eligibility. Start here

Cons

For most borrowers, though, the downsides of a 401(k) loan far outweigh the advantages. The major drawbacks of borrowing from your retirement account include:

  • You typically can’t make any contributions to your 401(k) while you have an outstanding loan
  • Your employer will also stop making contributions to your 401(k) while the loan is active
  • You could end up with a substantial loss to your retirement income
  • You may not be able to borrow as much as you could with a HELOC
  • You could have higher monthly payments than with a HELOC due to the shorter repayment period
  • You must receive a single lump sum. That’s less flexible than a HELOC’s line of credit
  • You will pay interest on the full loan amount, not just on your balance

You might be considering a 401(k) loan if you can’t get a HELOC, whether because your equity levels are too low or because you don’t qualify. But there are other options to explore that won’t impact your retirement.

When does it make sense to borrow from your 401(k)?

There’s really only one situation in which borrowing from your 401(k) makes sense. And that’s when you have a serious need for cash and no other way to access it affordably. Perhaps your credit score is too low or you already have too many existing debts to get a different type of loan.

Verify your HELOC eligibility. Start here

If you absolutely need to borrow from your 401(k), be sure not to borrow more than what’s required. And try to pay it back as quickly as you can so you can resume making deposits and benefitting from your employers’ matching program (if available).

Before tapping a 401(k), it’s a good idea to reach out to a trusted financial advisor who can look at your portfolio and help evaluate your options. It could be there’s a better type of loan you haven’t explored yet. Take the time to evaluate all your options and find the best solution for your current needs.

Alternatives to 401(k) loans

Navigating personal finance and financial planning can be challenging, especially when unforeseen expenses loom. A 401(k) loan may seem like an accessible solution, but there are alternatives that can leave your retirement funds intact.

Verify your HELOC eligibility. Start here

Tapping into your IRA

If your retirement plan includes an Individual Retirement Account (IRA), you could consider this as an alternative. Some IRAs allow you to withdraw without penalty for specific purposes like a first-time home purchase or medical expenses, offering a level of flexibility in contrast to a 401(k).

Consider early withdrawals

Another alternative is an early withdrawal, but this option may come with financial drawbacks. If you withdraw funds before retirement age (59 ½), you might face income taxes on any gains, along with a potential 10% penalty. The exact penalties can depend on the nature of the hardship prompting the early withdrawal.

Despite the absence of repayment obligations, early withdrawals may significantly impact your retirement plan. The prime reason being they can diminish your retirement funds, affecting your future financial stability. Remember, these withdrawals are not tax deductible, which may further strain your finances.

Hardship distributions

A specific type of early withdrawal, known as a hardship distribution, could be a potential option. The IRS defines a hardship distribution as funds withdrawn in response to an “immediate and heavy financial need.” This category covers specific circumstances, such as:

  • Select medical expenses
  • Costs associated with buying a principal home
  • Tuition, fees, and education costs
  • Preventing eviction or foreclosure
  • Funeral and burial expenses
  • Emergency home repairs for uninsured casualty losses

In these instances, you are not required to pay back the withdrawn amount. However, the term “hardship” can be subjective, and not all personal financial difficulties will qualify you for this type of withdrawal.

What is a HELOC?

A Home Equity Line of Credit (HELOC) is a type of loan that allows homeowners to access the equity in their homes. It can be used for various purposes, including debt consolidation and home improvement projects.

A HELOC provides a revolving line of credit, similar to a credit card, where borrowers can borrow and repay funds within a specified draw period. Interest is only charged on the amount borrowed, not the entire credit line. Repayment terms vary but often include a repayment period after the draw period ends.

Verify your HELOC eligibility. Start here

How do HELOCs work?

A HELOC is typically considered a second mortgage, as it is secured by the borrower’s home. The amount that can be borrowed depends on the available equity in the property. The interest rates on a HELOC may fluctuate over time, as they are often variable and tied to the prime rate and other market conditions.

Just note that you won’t be able to borrow all your available equity. Most lenders set a maximum HELOC limit between 80% and 90% of the home’s appraised value. That means your HELOC amount and your primary home loan, when combined, can’t exceed 80%-90% of the property value.

It’s important to note that, like any loan, a HELOC carries risks. Failing to make timely payments can result in foreclosure and the loss of the home. Additionally, using a HELOC for debt consolidation may only be beneficial if the borrower maintains disciplined financial habits to avoid falling back into debt.

HELOC rates and payments

HELOCs are almost all variable-rate loans, meaning their rates go up and down in line with other interest rates. However, you may be able to fix the rate on some or all of your balance.

HELOCs have two phases. During the initial draw phase, you can borrow, repay and borrow again as often as you want, making them exceptionally flexible. And you pay the interest only on your loan balance each month.

Eventually, the repayment phase kicks in. Then you can’t borrow anymore and have to zero your loan balance over a set period. However, lenders offer a wide array of options when it comes to the length of each phase. So you can choose to give yourself plenty of time to comfortably repay your loan. There’s no five-year limit, as there is for 401(k) loans.

Alternatives to HELOCs

If you’re worried about the complexities of a variable-rate, multiphase loan, you might consider any of these HELOC alternatives.

Verify your HELOC eligibility. Start here

  • Cash-out refinance: Cash-out refinancing involves replacing your existing mortgage with a new one that has a higher loan amount. The difference between the new loan and your old mortgage is received as a lump sum cash payout. This option allows you to tap into your home equity while potentially securing a lower interest rate and extending the repayment period. However, it involves closing costs and may reset the terms of your mortgage.
  • Home equity loan: A home equity loan, also known as a second mortgage, provides a lump sum of money based on the equity in your home. Unlike a HELOC, a home equity loan offers a fixed interest rate and predictable monthly payments over a specified loan term. This option can be suitable for one-time expenses or large projects, as it provides a lump sum upfront. However, keep in mind that you’ll be paying interest on the entire loan amount from the start.
  • Personal loans: Personal loans are unsecured loans that can be used for various purposes, including debt consolidation or home improvements. They are typically based on your creditworthiness and income rather than your home equity. Personal loans offer fixed rates and predictable monthly payments over a specified term. While they may have higher interest rates compared to home equity options, they don’t put your home at risk.
  • Credit cards: Credit cards can be used for smaller expenses, but they generally have higher interest rates compared to other loan options. If you’re considering using credit cards for debt consolidation or home improvements, ensure you have a solid plan to pay off the balance quickly to avoid accumulating excessive interest charges.

Think carefully before you borrow using any product. Do you absolutely need the funds? And are you choosing the least costly option available to you?

FAQ: 401(k) loan vs HELOC

What is a 401(k) loan?

A 401(k) loan is a type of loan that allows you to borrow from your retirement savings in your 401(k) account. The amount you can borrow is typically limited to the lesser of $50,000 or 50% of your vested account balance. This loan must be repaid, often through payroll deductions, within five years, with interest going back into your account.

What is a HELOC?

A Home Equity Line of Credit, or HELOC, is a type of loan that allows homeowners to borrow against the equity they have built up in their home. This equity is determined by the market value of your home minus what you owe on the mortgage. A HELOC often has a variable interest rate and can be used for any purpose.

How does a 401(k) loan differ from a HELOC?

A 401(k) loan is borrowed against your retirement savings, while a HELOC is borrowed against the equity in your home. While the interest on a 401(k) loan is paid to your own account, interest on a HELOC is paid to the lender. If you fail to repay a 401(k) loan, it can be treated as a taxable distribution from your plan, while failure to repay a HELOC could lead to foreclosure on your home.

Are there any tax implications for a 401(k) loan or a HELOC?

With a 401(k) loan, if you don’t pay it back in time, it can be treated as a withdrawal and subject to income tax and potentially a 10% early withdrawal penalty. Interest paid on a HELOC, on the other hand, may be tax-deductible if the funds are used to buy, build, or substantially improve the taxpayer’s home that secures the loan.

What should I consider before deciding between a 401(k) loan and a HELOC?

Consider the purpose of the loan, the repayment terms, the interest rates, and the potential impact on your long-term financial goals. A financial advisor can provide guidance based on your specific circumstances.

Can I have both a 401(k) loan and a HELOC at the same time?

Yes, you can have both a 401(k) loan and a HELOC at the same time. However, keep in mind that both loans will need to be repaid, which can impact your budget and financial plans. Always consider your ability to handle the repayment obligations of multiple loans.

Your next steps

For HELOCs and home equity loans, the only way you can be sure you’re choosing the least costly option is to get quotes from multiple lenders. Then compare the annual percentage rates (APRs) you’re offered. APRs reflect the loan costs as well as the raw interest rate.

A mortgage lender can help you evaluate your options and compare costs to find the best loan type for you. Ready to get started?

Time to make a move? Let us find the right mortgage for you


Peter Warden
Authored By: Peter Warden
The Mortgage Reports Editor
Peter Warden has been writing for a decade about mortgages, personal finance, credit cards, and insurance. His work has appeared across a wide range of media. He lives in a small town with his partner of 25 years.
Ryan Tronier
Updated By: Ryan Tronier
The Mortgage Reports Editor
Ryan Tronier is a personal finance writer and editor. His work has been published on NBC, ABC, USATODAY, Yahoo Finance, MSN Money, and more. Ryan is the former managing editor of the finance website Sapling, as well as the former personal finance editor at Slickdeals.
Paul Centopani
Reviewed By: Paul Centopani
The Mortgage Reports Editor
Paul Centopani is a writer and editor who started covering the lending and housing markets in 2018. Previous to joining The Mortgage Reports, he was a reporter for National Mortgage News. Paul grew up in Connecticut, graduated from Binghamton University and now lives in Chicago after a decade in New York and the D.C. area.