Essential Calculator

Refinance Calculator

Use this refinance calculator to compare your current mortgage with a new loan and estimate whether the savings justify the upfront costs.

How to use this page

  • Enter the balance you plan to refinance, the new rate, new term, and estimated closing costs.
  • Use the chart to see the new balance path after refinancing.
  • Compare monthly savings with upfront costs before deciding whether the move is worth it.

Refinance inputs

Use the remaining balance you would refinance into a new loan.

Results

Monthly payment$1,657
Total interest$301,346
Total paid$596,346
M360$0

What this calculator helps you see

Refinancing is usually about two questions: how much does the monthly payment change, and how long will it take to recover the new closing costs. This page keeps both in view.

When to use this calculator

Check the break-even point

This is useful when you want to know how long you would need to stay in the loan for the refinance to pay off.

Compare payment relief versus total cost

A refinance can lower the monthly payment but still increase long-term interest if the new term resets the clock.

Formula

Refinance value depends on payment change, term length, and upfront costs

The new payment follows standard amortization math, but the practical decision often comes down to how quickly monthly savings offset the costs of refinancing.

Worked example

Refinancing a $295,000 balance at a lower rate may reduce the payment, but that benefit should be weighed against closing costs and how long you expect to stay in the home.

ItemValue
Refinanced balance$295,000
New rate5.4%
New term30 years
Main questionWill savings outweigh closing costs?

Before you decide

  • Outputs are estimates and should be reviewed against lender or plan-specific terms.
  • Inputs are intentionally transparent so assumptions are easy to audit.
  • Rates, fees, taxes, and account terms can change the final result.

Page details

  • Updated April 15, 2026
  • For assumptions and general guidance, see Methodology.
  • For how explanatory content is written, see Editorial Policy.

Refinance checkpoints

QuestionWhy it mattersTypical effect
Lower rate?Reduces payment and interestPositive
Longer term?Can raise total interestMixed
High costs?Delays break-even pointNegative

Common questions

Does a lower rate always mean refinancing is worth it?

Not always. You still need to compare fees, the new term, and how long you expect to keep the loan.

What is the break-even point?

It is the point where cumulative monthly savings catch up to the closing costs and other refinancing fees.