Finance

Refinance Calculator

$
%
%
$
Monthly savings
$237.71
New payment
$1,798.65
Break-even (months)
21

Compare your current mortgage to a new one and find the break-even point on closing costs.

This is an educational estimate, not financial advice. Figures exclude taxes, fees, and individual circumstances. Verify with a licensed professional before making money decisions.

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How to use this calculator

  1. Enter your current balance and interest rate.
  2. Enter the new rate and term you are considering.
  3. Add the refinance closing cost.
  4. Read the monthly savings and the break-even month — refinancing pays off if you stay past it.

Formula

Break-even = Closing cost ÷ Monthly savings
  • Monthly savings — old payment − new payment
  • Break-even — months of savings to recoup closing costs

Worked example

Refinancing a $300,000 balance from 7.2% to 6.0% on a new 30-year term cuts the payment from about $2,036 to $1,799 — saving $238/month. With $5,000 in closing costs, you break even in about 21 months.

Frequently asked questions

What is break-even?

The number of months of savings needed to recoup your refinance closing costs.

When is refinancing worth it?

Generally when you'll stay past the break-even point and the rate drop is meaningful.

Does resetting the term matter?

Yes — extending to a new 30-year term can raise total interest even at a lower rate.

Are there other costs?

Appraisal, title, and lender fees make up closing costs; some can be rolled in.

Does this include taxes/insurance?

No — it compares principal and interest only.

Related calculators

MR
Maya R. · Author
Reviewed by David K., CFA · Updated 2026-06-03
Sources
Embed this calculator
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View answer.json (AI feed)
{
  "tool": "refinance",
  "question": "How does the Refinance Calculator work?",
  "answer": "Compare your current mortgage to a new one and find the break-even point on closing costs.",
  "formula": "Break-even = Closing cost ÷ Monthly savings",
  "inputs": [
    {
      "id": "balance",
      "label": "Current balance",
      "unit": "$"
    },
    {
      "id": "oldRate",
      "label": "Current rate",
      "unit": "%"
    },
    {
      "id": "newRate",
      "label": "New rate",
      "unit": "%"
    },
    {
      "id": "years",
      "label": "New term (years)",
      "unit": null
    },
    {
      "id": "cost",
      "label": "Refi closing cost",
      "unit": "$"
    }
  ],
  "sources": [
    {
      "name": "CFPB — Should I refinance?",
      "url": "https://www.consumerfinance.gov/",
      "note": "Refinance guidance."
    }
  ],
  "updated": "2026-06-03"
}