
Points
What's a discount point, and when is paying one worth it?
A discount point is money you pay at closing for a lower rate. Here's how points work, how to spot them in a quote, and when they pay off.
OCT 2026
What sets your rate, what points and credits buy, and how to read a quote without the sales pitch.

A discount point is money you pay at closing for a lower rate. Here's how points work, how to spot them in a quote, and when they pay off.

Your rate is the interest on the loan. The APR adds the lender's fees and points. The gap between them shows what a low rate really costs.

The rate on a lender's homepage assumes a specific borrower and often includes points. Here's what changes your rate and how to see your own.