Mortgage extra payments
payoff sooner
An extra payment is most useful when it goes to principal, not to next month's bill. Even a small monthly amount can shorten the loan and cut interest, especially early in the term.
Where the extra goes
Tell the servicer to apply the extra amount to principal. If it is applied to future payments instead, the loan may not pay off any faster.
A simple example
On a $320,000 30-year loan at 6.5%, adding $200 per month to principal can shorten the term by several years and save tens of thousands in interest. The exact result depends on the rate and how early you start.
Check the trade-off
Extra principal is less liquid than cash savings. Keep an emergency fund first, and compare the mortgage rate with other debts and savings rates.
FAQ
Does the calculator support extra payments?
Yes. The mortgage calculator has an extra principal field and shows the effect in the amortization schedule.
Is paying extra always better?
No. It depends on your rate, emergency fund and other debt. It is a math and liquidity trade-off, not a universal rule.
Estimate only; not a loan offer or financial advice.