Refinance Calculator

Is refinancing worth it? Compare payments, savings and breakeven.

Your numbers

Current monthly payment
$2,529.82
New monthly payment
$2,098.43
Monthly savings
$431.40
Breakeven point
14 months
Old loan total interest
$408,947.21
New loan total interest
$405,433.66
Lifetime interest savings
$3,513.55
Recommendation
Refinancing could save you $431.40/mo. Closing costs break even in 14 months.

Breakdown

How this calculator works

Refinancing trades your current mortgage for a new one — usually to grab a lower rate, but sometimes to shorten the term or tap equity. The pitch always highlights the lower monthly payment; the catch is closing costs, typically 2–5% of the loan, which you pay upfront. This refinance calculator does the full comparison: it computes your current payment, the new payment, the monthly savings, and — critically — the breakeven point, the number of months of savings needed to recover the closing costs.

The breakeven number is the whole decision. If you will sell or move before breakeven, refinancing loses money despite the lower rate. Also watch the term trap: refinancing a 25-year-remaining loan into a fresh 30-year loan lowers the payment but can increase lifetime interest even at a lower rate — the calculator shows total interest for both loans so you can see it. A good rule of thumb: refinance when the rate drops enough that breakeven lands well inside how long you plan to stay, and consider a shorter new term if the payment still fits your budget.

Frequently asked questions

What is the breakeven point?
Closing costs divided by monthly savings — the months it takes for the refinance to pay for itself. You must keep the loan past breakeven to come out ahead.
How much lower must rates be to refinance?
The old 1% rule is outdated. Run the numbers: with low closing costs, even a 0.5% drop can work if you stay long enough; with high costs, you may need 1% or more.
Does refinancing restart my loan term?
Often, yes — a new 30-year loan resets the clock. You can choose a 15- or 20-year term instead to avoid paying interest for extra years.
What are typical closing costs?
Usually 2–5% of the loan amount: origination fees, appraisal, title insurance and prepaid items. Some lenders offer "no-closing-cost" refinances that roll costs into a slightly higher rate.
Disclaimer: Results are estimates for planning purposes only and are not financial advice. Actual loan terms, taxes and investment returns vary — consult a qualified professional before making financial decisions.