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USDA Guarantee Fee Calculator
USDA Rural Development loans charge a 1% upfront guarantee fee (financed) plus 0.35% annual fee on outstanding balance. This calculator sizes both and compares to FHA/conventional.
Total guarantee fees paid
$10,640
Upfront 1% fee
$2,800
Monthly 0.35% portion
$82
Total annual fees over hold
$7,840
How the math works
$280K USDA: $2,800 upfront + $82/mo annual fee. Over 8 years: $7,840 annual fee + $2,800 upfront = $10,640 total.
Cheaper than FHA for most rural qualifying borrowers. Compare both loan types before picking — USDA has strict location + income caps that disqualify many.
How to Use
- Enter loan amount and holding period.
- See upfront fee, monthly fee, and total cost over hold.
Frequently Asked Questions
Do USDA fees ever drop off?
No — annual 0.35% is for life of loan. Cheapest way out: refi to conventional when 20% equity built.
Is USDA actually cheaper than FHA?
Usually yes, significantly. USDA: 1% upfront + 0.35% annual. FHA: 1.75% upfront + 0.55% annual. On $300K, USDA saves $2,250 upfront and ~$60/mo vs FHA.
Who qualifies?
Income at or below 115% of area median. Home in USDA-eligible rural area (many suburbs qualify — check USDA map). No down payment required. Primary residence only.
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