FHA Closing Cost Overview
FHA refinance closing costs consist of two layers: the FHA-mandated costs (UFMIP and annual MIP) and the same lender and third-party fees you would pay on any refinance. The FHA layer is fixed — you cannot negotiate UFMIP. The lender layer is fully negotiable.
| Cost Category | Typical Range | Negotiable? |
|---|---|---|
| UFMIP (upfront MIP) | 1.75% of loan | No — fixed FHA rule |
| Origination / lender fee | $500–$2,500 | Yes |
| Appraisal (full refi only) | $400–$700 | Slightly |
| Title insurance (lender) | $500–$1,500 | Shop title companies |
| Title search / recording | $100–$400 | Limited |
| Prepaid interest (10–30 days) | $300–$900 | Via closing date choice |
| Escrow setup (taxes/insurance) | 2–3 months reserves | No |
Total for full FHA refi: $6,000–$15,000 on a $300,000 loan (2–5%). UFMIP alone is $5,250 on that loan. Use the FHA Refinance Calculator to model your specific numbers — it includes UFMIP and breaks out how we calculate each figure.
UFMIP: The FHA-Specific Cost
UFMIP (Upfront Mortgage Insurance Premium) is 1.75% of the base loan amount on every FHA refinance. It is charged regardless of your credit score, equity, or loan size. It protects the FHA Mutual Mortgage Insurance Fund (HUD) — not you.
- $200,000 loan: UFMIP = $3,500
- $300,000 loan: UFMIP = $5,250
- $400,000 loan: UFMIP = $7,000
- $500,000 loan: UFMIP = $8,750
Most borrowers roll UFMIP into the new loan rather than paying it at closing. Rolling it in adds to your loan balance and extends your break-even, but avoids the upfront cash outlay. If you pay it out of pocket, you can deduct it as a prepaid finance charge on some loans (consult a tax advisor).
FHA Streamline vs. Full FHA Refinance Costs
| Cost Item | FHA Streamline | Full FHA Rate & Term |
|---|---|---|
| UFMIP | 1.75% (net of partial refund) | 1.75% of loan |
| Appraisal | Not required | Required ($400–$700) |
| Income verification | Typically waived | Full documentation |
| Lender fees | $500–$2,000 | $500–$2,500 |
| Title insurance | May use existing (cheaper) | New policy required |
| Total out-of-pocket range | $1,500–$4,500 | $3,000–$8,000+ |
Read the full FHA Streamline Refinance guide to see whether you qualify and what the net tangible benefit requirement means for your situation.
How to Minimize FHA Closing Costs
- Roll costs into the loan — keeps cash in pocket; use our guide on rolling costs in to see the break-even
- Shop lender fees aggressively — origination fees are negotiable; get at least 3 Loan Estimates and compare Section A fees directly
- Choose a no-closing-cost option — accept a slightly higher rate in exchange for lender credit covering all fees
- Streamline rather than full refinance — if eligible, Streamline saves the appraisal and reduces title costs
- Time your Streamline within 3 years — to maximize the UFMIP refund credit
Frequently Asked Questions
What are typical FHA refinance closing costs?
What is FHA UFMIP?
Can I roll FHA closing costs into the loan?
How much does an FHA Streamline Refinance cost?
Can you get a no-closing-cost FHA refinance?
Calculate Your FHA Refinance Costs
Model UFMIP, MIP, lender fees, and break-even for your specific loan amount and timeline.