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Mortgage Penalty Calculator

Planning to break or refinance your mortgage before the term ends? Estimate the penalty your lender may charge by comparing three months of interest against the interest rate differential (IRD).

Three-month interest Interest rate differential Shareable estimate

Calculator Inputs

Outstanding principal that will be paid off.

Annual percentage rate on your existing mortgage.

Use your lender’s posted rate or the rate they would offer today.

Number of months left in your current mortgage term.

Used to estimate your regular payment for context.

Estimated Penalty

Likely Penalty

$0.00

Based on the higher of three months interest or the interest rate differential.

Likely charged: Three Months Interest

Three Months Interest

$0.00

IRD Penalty

$0.00

Estimated Regular Payment

$0.00

Interest Saved

Rate difference: 0.00%

Remaining term: 0 months

What to Know

  • Penalty trigger: Comparing your rate to the lender’s current posted or comparison rate.
  • Higher amount: Lenders typically charge whichever penalty is greater.
  • Check your contract: Some lenders cap penalties or use different IRD formulas.

How the Mortgage Penalty Calculator Works

When you break a closed mortgage early, lenders typically calculate the penalty using two methods. The method that produces the higher amount is charged.

  • Three months interest: An estimate equal to three regular months of interest on your current mortgage balance.
  • Interest rate differential (IRD): Measures the extra interest the lender loses by comparing your contract rate to a current or comparison rate for the remaining term.
  • Payment frequency: Helps estimate your scheduled payment so you can visualize the impact of losing the mortgage.

Adjust the inputs to match your contract and ask your lender which comparison rate they use for IRD. Some lenders reference their posted rates while others use discounted rates.

Tips to Reduce Your Mortgage Penalty

Time Your Break

Penalties shrink as your remaining term gets shorter. If possible, negotiate a closing date closer to your mortgage renewal to minimize the cost.

Ask About Porting or Blend & Extend

Many lenders let you move your rate to a new home or blend it with a new rate, which can eliminate or reduce penalties.

Always request a written payout statement so you understand the exact amount, how it was calculated, and when it expires.

Build Your Strategy Before You Break Your Mortgage

Use this calculator to compare scenarios and build a negotiation plan with your lender or broker.