I do not have any points listed on Box 6 of my 1098. But, on my Closing Disclosure I have a line that notes "Lender's Origination Charge". Is this the same as Points?

For the loan origination fee to be considered "points" it must be:

• Figured as a percentage of the principal amount of the mortgage; and
• Clearly shown on the settlement statement (such as the Settlement Statement, Form HUD-1) as points charged for the mortgage. [The points may be shown as paid from either your funds or the seller's.]

If the origination fee was not calculated as a percentage of the principal amount of the mortgage, then it is not considered "points" and not deductible.

Do keep track of all your closing costs since they will be added to the basis of the house when calculating gain if you sell in the future.

If you do include the origination fee as points paid, enter them on the screen, Tell us about the points you paid.  Mark the radio button next to Points only appear on our Closing Disclosure or HUD-1 and enter the amount in the box.

Please see the following articles for more information on deducting home mortgage interest:

• Can I deduct my mortgage?
• IRS Publication 936 - Home Mortgage Interest Deduction