Retired & Buying a Home? If you are transitioning into retirement with your 401(k)/IRA, you may be wondering how a lender considers that asset as income to qualify for a home loan. To use your retirement account as income, you need to set up a distribution from your account(s) that is paid monthly. The lender will then use that income as your monthly income. When you retire, you may receive several types of income. Let’s talk, and I’ll help you figure out how the lender will approach your individual situation!