Regardless of whether you have filed a Chapter 7 or Chapter 13 bankruptcy, you cannot withdraw money OR take out a loan from your retirement account without court permission.

If you are in a Chapter 7 case, it is usually best to just wait until the bankruptcy case is completed and then if you need to withdraw funds or take out a loan, you can do so. If you request court permission during your bankruptcy, there will be attorney fees involved and it could lengthen your time in the bankruptcy case.

If you are in a Chapter 13 case, you need to contact your attorney as soon as you realize you may need a loan or withdrawal. The process takes some time, and usually your income and expenses have to be reviewed along with drafting the motion, filing the motion, and waiting for a court hearing. This whole process can take at least a month. Your attorney will also ask you specific questions about why you need to do the withdrawal or loan. The court will only approve withdrawals or loans if they are necessary, such as to fix your air conditioning unit, pay for a medical procedure, etc. The court will not approve the withdrawal or loan for unnecessary reasons such as taking a vacation or installing a swimming pool in your backyard.

Remember, communication with your attorney during your bankruptcy case is the key to a successful case. If you are ever in doubt, contact your attorney to find out how to proceed, but remember you cannot touch your retirement account during your bankruptcy case without getting court permission.