Example: If the account balance is $100,000, and then a $10,000 loan is taken, the total account balance on the Plan’s books is still $100,000 because the loan balance is considered an asset of the account. If you award the former spouse 50% of the total account balance and include the loan balance, the full $100,000 will be divided and the former spouse will receive $50,000. If you award the former spouse 50% of the total account balance and exclude the loan balance, only $90,000 will be divided and the former spouse will receive $45,000, his or her share having been reduced by 50% of the $10,000 loan balance. Though a different outcome can be negotiated, a loan balance is generally included if taken solely for the benefit of the account holder and excluded if taken for a joint marital purpose or to pay a joint debt.