Your Loan Balance Isn't the Whole Story - 2/4/2026
Many homeowners are surprised to learn that the unpaid balance on their mortgage isn't the same as the payoff amount. While the unpaid balance represents the remaining principal owed on the loan, the actual payoff is often higher. That's because the payoff amount includes not just the principal, but also any accrued interest and other fees owed up to the day the loan is fully satisfied.
Mortgage interest is typically calculated on a daily basis, so if you're paying off your loan between regular payment dates, additional interest will be included in the payoff amount. This daily interest accrues from the date of your last payment until the date your lender receives the full payoff.
In addition to interest, your payoff may include other costs. Lenders often add small administrative or recording fees to cover the cost of processing the final paperwork and releasing the lien on the property. In some cases, prepayment penalties may apply, although they are less common in today's residential mortgages.
If you have an FHA loan, additional fees may be involved. FHA loans typically require that interest be paid through the end of the month in which the loan is paid off, regardless of the exact payoff date. This means that even if your lender receives the payoff early in the month, you could still be charged interest for the entire month. FHA loans may also include a small mortgage insurance premium refund or final adjustment, depending on how long you've held the loan and your payment history.
Understanding the difference between your loan balance and your payoff amount is important when you're planning to sell your home, refinance, or pay off your mortgage early. Always request a formal payoff statement from your lender before making a final payment, as it will detail the exact amount required to fully close out the loan.
Being aware of these differences can help you avoid surprises at closing and give you a more accurate picture of what to expect when paying off your mortgage.