Calculate the Impact of Discount Points

Buying discount points (or mortgage points) means paying extra cash at the time of closing to reduce the interest rate and monthly payments. Another option would be to use that money towards a larger down payments, reducing the loan amount. Which option makes the most sense? Use this calculator to find out how long it will take to recuperate the cost for buying points called the breakeven.


Enter the total amount of the loan. This would be the original amount, before any payments to the principal.


Enter the annual interest rate as a percentage. This is the rate you receive before buying discount points.



Choose the number of points to buy. Each point is equal to 1 percent of the loan amount, for instance 2 points on a $100,000 loan would cost $2000.


Enter the annual interest rate for this mortgage with discount points as a percentage.

2 points will require a payment of


You would break even in

105 months

If you plan to move or refinance sooner than the breakeven date, you should consider putting this money towards a larger down payment.

Monthly payment with points:
Monthly payment without points:


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