A payoff request can be created and mailed for free. How long does it take to obtain a payoff?The mortgage discharge or lien release is recorded. Late payments and a default are reported to a credit bureau and will appear on your credit report. That could affect your ability to get credit in the future. If you write to ask how much it costs to pay off your mortgage, the servicer generally has seven business days after receiving your request to answer you. Learn what a mortgage payoff statement is, how to request one, and and what to do if your mortgage servicer fails to send it. Any excess amount that you pay will be refunded. Why does it take weeks to prepare a payoff letter? Supporting Documentation, Fees and Payments. 1.