The Toolbox

Should I Pay Off the Mortgage?

The most-asked question in retirement. Most comparisons stop at "your rate versus your return," which misses the part that actually decides it for most households.

01The mortgage

Balance remaining Interest rate Years left

Monthly paymentPrincipal and interest only Do you itemize deductions?Most retirees no longer do If yes, your marginal rate

02Where the money would come from This is the part that decides it

Which account? Investable assetsAll of them, before paying anything off What would the money earn if invested?

03The answer

04The things the arithmetic misses

This compares an interest rate against an expected return, then adjusts for how the money comes out of your accounts. Expected returns are not guaranteed and paying down a mortgage is. That asymmetry matters more than a percentage point either way.

Rose Wealth LLC is a registered investment advisor (CRD #: 334740). Information provided is for educational purposes only, not personalized advice. Our services aim to support your financial journey, but all investments involve risk, including potential loss of principal. Past performance does not guarantee future results. Information believed accurate but not guaranteed. Consult with our team for personalized guidance. Rose Wealth LLC does not provide legal, accounting, or tax advice. Insurance products and annuities offered through John Merkel, Texas Insurance License #943284, are not obligations of Rose Wealth LLC.