Any financial expert will tell you it's best to keep your retirement savings tucked away until, well, retirement. That certainly holds true for one of the most common ways to save for those post-career years: employer-sponsored 401(k) plans.
But life can get in the way of the best investment plans. And if you have an immediate need for cash, borrowing from your 401(k) may make the most financial sense. Especially when you compare that option to other loan alternatives — or withdrawing money entirely from the plan.
However, there are many rules, both from the IRS and individual employer plans, that apply to 401(k) loans. If those are not followed, you may end up paying taxes and penalties that can seriously hamper your finances.