Many 401(k) plans allow participants to borrow from their respective accounts. Generally speaking, 401(k) plan loans cannot exceed the lesser of $50,000 or 50% of your vested account balance. The minimum amount you can borrow depends on the plan. However, by law, the plan cannot set a loan minimum that exceeds $1,000. If you're thinking about borrowing from your 401(k) account, keep in mind that your 401(k) account should only be considered as a source of funds when all other options have been explored. Whether you withdraw or borrow from your 401(k), you may be defeating the original purpose and the benefits of such a plan - that is, saving for your retirement.