The Choices

Which answer is correct?

Think flexibility, not interest rate.

  1. A Lower required payment
  2. B Lower interest rate
  3. C No closing costs ever
  4. D No need for an emergency fund

Answer: A · Lower required payment

The main advantage is flexibility. You can make the extra payment when cash is available, but fall back to the lower required 30-year payment when needed.

The money lesson

The main advantage is the lower required payment. A true 15-year loan may have a lower rate, but it also locks in a higher required monthly payment.

This puzzle is designed to make one financial rule easier to remember. Use it as a starting point, then run your own numbers before making a real-world decision.

Read the payoff strategy →