Refinance Break-Even

Closing costs hurt once. Lower payments help monthly. Here's the month they cross.

How to judge a refinance offer

  1. Enter your current loan. Balance, rate, and years remaining.
  2. Enter the offer. New rate, new term, and all closing costs.
  3. Press Calculate. Monthly savings and the break-even month appear.
  4. Check the fine print: only refinance if you'll stay past break-even — and compare lifetime interest, not just the payment.

Frequently asked questions

What is the break-even point on a refinance?

Closing costs divided by monthly savings. A $7,500 close saving $150/month breaks even in 50 months — stay longer and you profit.

Is a lower rate always worth refinancing?

No. If closing costs are high or you move before break-even, you lose. A longer new term can also raise lifetime interest despite a lower payment.

What are closing costs made of?

Origination fees, appraisal, title insurance, and prepaid items — typically 2–5% of the loan. Points you buy to lower the rate count too.

Does refinancing restart the clock hurt me?

It can. Going from 26 years left to a new 30-year term adds 4 years of payments; the calculator's lifetime-interest line exposes that.

How much lower must the rate be?

The old 1% rule is a myth — it depends on balance, costs, and how long you stay. Run your numbers here instead of rules of thumb.

Is this financial advice?

No. Planning estimates only — a lender or advisor can quote your exact terms.

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