14 Best Mortgage Refinance Lenders of January 2026
Last updated on January 12, 2026
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Curious if refinancing can get you a lower mortgage rate? 🤔 Smart move. Use our expert picks to start your research: NerdWallet selected the best refinance mortgage companies across a range of categories.
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- 50+ mortgage lenders reviewed and rated by our team of experts.
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- Governed by NerdWallet's strict guidelines for editorial integrity.
Why trust NerdWallet
Why trust NerdWallet
- 50+ mortgage lenders reviewed and rated by our team of experts.
- 40+ years of combined experience covering mortgages and financial topics.
- Objective, comprehensive star rating system assessing 120+ categories and 5,000+ data points.
- Governed by NerdWallet's strict guidelines for editorial integrity.
Our 2025 Best-Of Award Winner
Best Mortgage Lender Cash-Out Refinancing
Rocket Mortgage, LLC
NMLS#3030
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14 Best Mortgage Refinance Lenders of January 2026
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- 14 Best Mortgage Refinance Lenders of January 2026
- 🤓 The basics: How mortgage refinancing works
- 💰 How much does it cost to refinance?
- 🤔 Should I refinance my mortgage?
- 🏠 Common types of mortgage refinance loans
- 🔎 Finding the best mortgage refinance company
- ⚠️ Can I refinance a mortgage with a bad credit score?
- Methodology
- FAQ
- About the authors
Lender | NerdWallet Rating | Min. credit score | National / regional | Learn more |
|---|---|---|---|---|
620 | National | |||
620 | National | |||
620 | National | |||
620 | National | |||
N/A | National | |||
620 | National | |||
620 | National | |||
620 | National | |||
620 | National | |||
500 | National | |||
620 | National | |||
620 | National | |||
600 | Regional | |||
620 | National |
Rocket Mortgage, LLC: Best for cash-out refinancing
Min. credit score
620
National / regional
National
- Why we like itRocket Mortgage is the Goliath of home loans in the U.S. It's the largest mortgage lender by volume, and keeps expanding its reach. Refinancing rates are competitve, but fees may be on the higher side.Pros
- Major refinance lender, by loan volume.
- Offers low refinancing rates compared with other lenders.
- Borrowers can apply via mobile app.
ConsRead full review- Average refinancing fees are on the high side.
- Refinance loans make up a somewhat small share of Rocket's total home loans.
First Federal Bank: Best for variety of refinance loans
Min. credit score
620
National / regional
National
- Why we like itFirst Federal Bank stands out for its relatively low refinance rates and its emphasis on government loans. Most likely to appeal to borrowers shopping for competitive rates.Pros
- Big refinance lender, by loan volume.
- Offers a strong variety of refinancing loan types.
ConsRead full review- No mobile app.
- Refinance loans make up a relatively small share of First Federal's total home loans.
Rate: Best for borrowers with credit challenges
Min. credit score
620
National / regional
National
- Why we like itRate boasts a streamlined application process, with full underwriting in as little as one business day — though for all its online conveniences, you'll still work with a human.Pros
- Generous selection of refinancing loan types.
- Offers low refinancing rates compared with other lenders.
- Major refinance lender, by loan volume.
ConsRead full review- Details of less common loan types aren't available on the lender's website.
- Refinance loans make up a relatively small share of Rate's total home loans.
Pennymac: Best for refinancing overall
Min. credit score
620
National / regional
National
- Why we like itPennymac, known for government loans, also does big business in refinancing. Best for borrowers looking for low rates and an efficient digital experience, though fees may be on the high side.Pros
- Offers low refinancing rates compared with other lenders.
- Major refinance lender, by loan volume.
- Refinance loans make up a large share of Pennymac's total home loans.
ConsRead full review- Average refinancing fees are on the high side.
- Home equity loans, but no HELOCs.
Navy Federal: Best for cash-out refinancing
Min. credit score
N/A
National / regional
National
- Why we like itNavy Federal is known for VA lending, and it's a big refinance lender by volume You'll need a military connection to join the credit union.Pros
- Offers low refinancing rates compared with other lenders.
- 24/7 customer service supports borrowers stationed overseas.
ConsRead full review- Borrowers must join the credit union before applying for a mortgage, and all borrowers on the loan must be members for the loan to close.
- Refinance loans make up a relatively small share of Navy Federal's total home loans.
U.S. Bank: Best for in-person service
Min. credit score
620
National / regional
National
- Why we like itU.S. Bank offers a broad selection of mortgages, including some niche options. Refinancing rates and fees are middle of the road, per federal data. The bank offers helpful tech for rate shopping and live chat, though its online application could be smoother.Pros
- Major refinance lender, by loan volume.
- Wide variety of mortgages, including some harder-to-find types.
- Solid selection of refinancing loan types.
ConsRead full review- Rates shown online don’t reflect your credit score.
- Contact form interrupts online application before you can complete it.
- Refinance loans make up a somewhat small share of U.S. Bank's total home loans.
Wells Fargo: Best for those who bank with Wells Fargo
Min. credit score
620
National / regional
National
- Why we like itWells Fargo has significantly shrunk its mortgage business in the past two years. It was still a major refi lender by loan volume in 2024, and average refinancing rates are on the low side.Pros
- Borrowers can see customized mortgage rate estimates for conventional and VA loans.
- Major refinance lender, by loan volume.
- Offers low refinancing rates compared with other lenders.
ConsRead full review- Refinance loans make up a small share of SoFi's total home loans.
- Prospective borrowers may be put off by the lender’s past legal issues.
Andrews Federal Credit Union: Best for credit union experience
Min. credit score
620
National / regional
National
- Why we like itAndrews Federal Credit Union is on the smaller side, but offers big value through low refinancing rates and fast closings. Its online rate quote tool is exceptionally informative.Pros
- Low average refinance fees compared to other lenders.
- Offers free, one-time “float down” if mortgage rates drop while your loan is in progress.
- Online rate tool is exceptionally user-friendly and detailed.
ConsRead full review- Refinance loans make up a relatively small share of Andrews' total home loans.
- U.S. branches limited to Maryland, Virginia, Washington, D.C. and New Jersey.
Chase: Best for customer service
Min. credit score
620
National / regional
National
- Why we like itChase mortgage has an above-average reputation for consumer satisfaction and is a major refinance lender by volume.Pros
- Major refinance lender, by loan volume.
- Offers a strong variety of refinancing loan types.
- Receives above-average ratings for customer satisfaction, according to J.D. Power and Zillow.
ConsRead full review- Refinance loans make up a relatively small share of Chase's total home loans.
- Borrowers must create an account or speak with a home loan expert before completing an online application.
Freedom Mortgage: Best for low average mortgage rates
Min. credit score
500
National / regional
National
- Why we like itFreedom Mortgage does big business in refinancing, and it services most of the home loans it originates. But Freedom doesn't display mortgage rates online, and customer service options are limited.Pros
- Services most of the loans it originates, so your mortgage is less likely to be resold to another lender.
- Major refinance lender, by loan volume.
- Refinance loans make up a large share of Freedom's total home loans.
ConsRead full review- Repeatedly fined by the Consumer Financial Protection Bureau.
- No mortgage rates displayed online.
NBKC: Best for low average rates and fees
Min. credit score
620
National / regional
National
- Why we like itNBKC stands out for its attractive interest rates and fees, and is primarily an online lender — though its app does not have mortgage features and chat support is not geared toward mortgage borrowers.Pros
- Fast and efficient customer service.
- User-friendly website has interactive tool to customize a rate quote.
- Offers FHA and VA refinances.
ConsRead full review- Customer service is only accessible over the phone for many mortgage customers.
- Refinance loans make up a somewhat small share of NBKC's total home loans.
Northpointe: Best for fast closings
Min. credit score
620
National / regional
National
- Why we like itIn addition to conventional and government-backed loans, Northpointe Bank’s mortgage portfolio includes rarer offerings condo loans and investment property loans. Refinancing rates are competitive, but fees may be on the higher side.Pros
- Offers low refinancing rates compared with other lenders.
- Big refinance lender, by loan volume.
- Offers a strong variety of refinancing loan types.
ConsRead full review- Average refinancing fees are on the high side.
- Bank’s mobile app isn’t useful for mortgage borrowers.
SoFi: Best for customer perks and rewards
Min. credit score
600
National / regional
Regional
- Why we like itSoFi offers perks for existing customers, including a discount on closing costs and accessible customer support. The site primarily highlights conventional home loan offerings, so borrowers looking for other loan types may need to reach out directly for more details.Pros
- Offers low refinancing rates compared with other lenders.
- Conventional loan borrowers can choose between a 10-, 15-, 20- or 30-year term.
- Solid selection of refinancing loan types.
ConsRead full review- Sample mortgage interest rates are shown for conventional refinance loans, but not for other loan types.
- Refinance loans make up a somewhat small share of SoFi's total home loans.
- Online details on some loan products are scant.
Veterans United: Best for active military and veterans
Min. credit score
620
National / regional
National
- Why we like itVeterans United originates more VA mortgages than any other lender. Though average refnancing fees are on the higher side, rates are low, and it’s a solid pick for borrowers looking for a VA loan with ample support along the way.Pros
- Offers low refinancing rates compared with other lenders.
- Major refinance lender, by loan volume.
- 24/7 customer service line supports servicemembers stationed internationally.
ConsRead full review- Average refinancing fees are on the high side.
- Website doesn’t have online chat.
- Refinance loans make up a somewhat small share of Veterans United's total home loans.
🤓 The basics: How mortgage refinancing works
When you refinance, you get a new mortgage to replace your old one. The new mortgage pays off the balance of your old home loan. Often, people refinance when today’s refinance rates drop below their existing mortgage interest rate.
You’ll pay closing costs and fees, just like you did when you bought your house. After paying the upfront fees, it can take a few years to reach the break-even point, or when refinance savings outweigh costs.
The steps to refinance are similar to when you got a mortgage to buy your house:
- Get your finances in order.
- Research which type of refinance loan you want.
- Shop around and compare each lender’s Loan Estimate.
- Pick a refinance lender and start the mortgage underwriting process.
- Get a home appraisal, if required.
- Finalize (“close”) the loan and pay any refinance closing costs.
» MORE: How to refinance a mortgage
💰 How much does it cost to refinance?
Refinancing isn’t as pricey as when you bought your home, but it isn't cheap. Closing costs typically run 2% to 6% of the total loan amount.
On a $300,000 refinance, that'd be $6,000 to $18,000. For a detailed breakdown, check out our guide on how much it costs to refinance. Or, use NerdWallet’s mortgage refinance calculator to run the numbers for yourself.
🤔 Should I refinance my mortgage?
If you time it right, a mortgage refinance can help you save money or build wealth faster. But that’s not always the case. Sometimes, a mortgage refinance is necessary to support a different goal.
Here are some common reasons to refinance your mortgage.
- Reducing your interest rate.
- Making smaller monthly payments.
- Borrowing against your home equity and getting the difference in cash.
- Paying off your mortgage faster.
- Dropping FHA mortgage insurance.
- Switching loan types, such as from an adjustable-rate to a fixed-rate loan.
- Adding a borrower, such as a new spouse.
- Removing a borrower, such as splitting the house in a divorce.
🤓
Refinancing is a big decision, so it’s normal to feel a little nervous before you talk to a mortgage lender. For a script with sample sentences, check out our guide on what to say when applying to refinance.Nerdy Tip
While you can refinance as often as you want, some lenders require a waiting, or “seasoning,” period of six to 12 months between loans.
🏠 Common types of mortgage refinance loans
Just like purchase loans, you can choose from a conventional loan — the most common type — or a government-backed mortgage from the Federal Housing Administration (FHA loans), Department of Veterans Affairs (VA loans) or U.S. Department of Agriculture (USDA loans).
Here are the most popular categories of mortgage refinance loans:
- Rate-and-term refinance: This is exactly what it sounds like: You refinance your mortgage to reduce the interest rate, alter the length of the loan, or both.
- Cash-out refinance: In this case, your new mortgage is more than your current loan balance. Then, you receive the difference as cash. You can use the money for home improvements or other financial responsibilities.
- Renovation refinance: To help fund home improvements, you take out a larger loan than what you previously owed. The extra money goes toward fixing up your home. For example: With an FHA 203(k) loan, the lender directly pays your contractor.
- Streamline refinance: Government-backed loans from the FHA, VA or USDA let some borrowers skip steps — like the appraisal and/or credit check — to save time and money.
For more on streamline refinance loans, check out these deep dives from the Nerds:
What about "no closing cost" refinances?
You might see lenders offering no-closing-cost refinances. These are the "free lunch" of the mortgage world — but as the saying goes, there is no such thing as a free lunch. While you won't pay upfront fees with a no-closing-cost refi, those costs will be built into the loan — often in the form of a higher interest rate.
🔎 Finding the best mortgage refinance company
To get the best mortgage refinance rate, get at least three different quotes — or ask a mortgage broker to shop around on your behalf.
It might be easy to refinance with your original mortgage lender, but they might not offer you the best deal. See our guide on how to choose a mortgage lender for more shopping advice.
» MORE: Best cash-out refinance lenders
⚠️ Can I refinance a mortgage with a bad credit score?
You’ll have fewer options when refinancing a mortgage with bad credit, but they’re out there. In our research, we’ve found lenders that accept scores in the 500’s and 600’s.
In general, expect to pay higher interest rates and fees. Most lenders like to see a credit score of 620 or above for a mortgage refinance.
✅ Mortgage refinancing: Pros and cons
Sometimes it’s a good idea to refinance your mortgage, but that’s not always the case. The pros and cons of refinancing depend on your personal circumstances. Here are a few common ones to consider — they might not all apply to you.
Pros
- Lowering your monthly payment.
- Building home equity faster.
- Accessing home equity for renovations or other expenses.
- Separating your finances from your ex (when removing a name from a mortgage).
Cons
- Paying upfront fees and closing costs.
- Potentially paying more interest over time (if you lengthen the loan term).
- Potentially using your home as collateral to pay off debt.
- Costs might outweigh fees, if you move or sell before the break-even point.
Last updated on January 12, 2026
Frequently asked questions
- In order to qualify for a mortgage refinance, you will need to meet the criteria set by your lender and loan program. These can include income requirements, a minimum credit score, a maximum debt-to-income ratio and sufficient home equity.
- Refinance rates are in constant flux and vary based on economic trends, like job growth and inflation. But the rate you're offered will also depend on your individual financial situation, and factors like your credit score and the loan-to-value ratio of your refinance. Get quotes from multiple lenders to find the best refinance rates.
Methodology
How we chose the best mortgage refinance loan lenders
Our team of mortgage experts follows an objective, consumer-first methodology to assess mortgage refinance companies and pick the best.
40
Lenders reviewed
40
Lenders reviewed
We review 40 lenders, including major banks, credit unions, and online lenders operating across multiple states.
11
Categories assessed
11
Categories assessed
Each lender is evaluated across 11 weighted categories covering refinance as a percent of lending business, overall share of the refinance loan market, rates and fees, types of refinance loans offered, rate transparency and customer experience.
480+
Data points analyzed
480+
Data points analyzed
Our team tracks and reassesses hundreds of data points annually for reviewed lenders, ensuring up-to-date, accurate comparisons.
Star rating categories
We evaluate the following categories and carefully weigh how each factor impacts your experience.
5.0
Overall score
We evaluate the following categories and carefully weigh how each factor impacts your experience.
The star ratings on this page reflect each lender's performance in NerdWallet’s refinance category. We scored the category and chose lenders for this page using the following methodology:
NerdWallet reviewed 40 mortgage lenders, including the majority of the largest U.S. mortgage lenders by annual loan volume (measured among lenders with at least a 1% market share), lenders with significant online search volume and those that specialize in serving various audiences across the country.
All reviewed mortgage lenders that offer more than one refinance product were evaluated based on (1) average interest rates and refinance origination fees, (2) the portion of their business dedicated to refinance lending, (3) the lender’s refinance market share, (4) their rate transparency, (5) how easy it is to get in touch with customer service, and (6) variety of refinance loans offered.
The highest scoring lenders appear on this page.
NerdWallet solicits information from reviewed lenders on a recurring basis throughout the year. All lender-provided information is verified through lender websites and interviews. We also utilized 2024 data from the Home Mortgage Disclosure Act (HMDA) for origination volume, origination fee, rate spread and share-of-product data.
