DirectLenderMatch

Worth Knowing · Plan participant loan

401(k) / Qualified Plan Participant Loan

401(k) / Qualified Plan Participant Loan is categorized in this directory under the financing form “Plan participant loan.” Typical use: Borrow from eligible employer retirement plan. Support or collateral is generally based on Participant's vested plan balance.

What is it?

DirectLenderMatch classifies 401(k) / Qualified Plan Participant Loan under the financing form “Plan participant loan.” Its typical use in this directory is: Borrow from eligible employer retirement plan.

How does it work?

The structure is generally evaluated, supported, or secured using the following basis: Participant's vested plan balance. Exact underwriting, eligibility, terms, and availability are provider-specific and can change.

What can it be used for?

Borrow from eligible employer retirement plan.

What backs or supports it?

Participant's vested plan balance.

Why does this structure exist?

This structure provides a defined way to address the financing need described above. The provider, transaction, collateral, and underwriting context determine how the structure is implemented in practice.

Important considerations

Confirm current costs, risks, licensing, eligibility, collateral treatment, recourse, tax consequences, and availability directly with the provider and appropriate professional advisers. DirectLenderMatch does not compare rates or recommend products.

Is this actually a loan?

Loan or credit structure

Workbook classification: Yes. Financing forms such as leases, purchases, shared equity, advances, and guarantees may solve a funding need without being conventional loans.

Verified lenders or providers

Plan administrator / recordkeeper

Empower

Empower documents 401(k) participant loans when permitted by the employer plan.

Official evidence page →

Last verified: 2026-08-24

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