Payoff Time Formula:
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Definition: This calculator determines how much faster you can pay off your mortgage by making additional principal payments.
Purpose: It helps homeowners understand the impact of extra payments on their mortgage term and total interest paid.
The calculator uses the formula:
Where:
Explanation: The formula calculates how many payments would be required when applying extra money toward the principal each month.
Details: Even small extra payments can significantly reduce your loan term and total interest paid, potentially saving thousands of dollars.
Tips: Enter your loan principal, annual interest rate (converted to decimal), regular monthly payment, and any extra amount you plan to pay. All values must be > 0 (except extra payment which can be 0).
Q1: How do I convert APR to monthly rate?
A: Divide your annual rate by 12 (for monthly payments). Example: 6% APR = 0.06/12 = 0.005 monthly rate.
Q2: Should I apply extra to principal or regular payment?
A: Always specify extra payments should go toward principal to maximize interest savings.
Q3: How much can I save with extra payments?
A: Even $100 extra per month on a $300,000 loan at 4% can save ~$28,000 and cut 5 years off a 30-year mortgage.
Q4: Is it better to make extra payments or refinance?
A: Depends on rates and fees - use this calculator to compare scenarios.
Q5: Can I convert n' to years?
A: Yes, divide the result by 12 to get years (e.g., 180 months = 15 years).