"Payoff amount" is generally higher than the remaining balance on the home. A mortgage payoff letter can come in two forms.One form tells borrowers the remaining principal amount and interest they have to pay to close out the loan. Here's how to determine your payoff amount: Contact your lender: Contact your mortgage servicer to request an official payoff statement. 1) Call the mortgage department and request an official principal payoff letter. Depending on your lender, you may have to sign in to an online account, call a helpline, or send a formal letter to start the request process. Remember to include the loan account number in the letter to ensure proper identification. Providing better banking to Southern California and the Bay Area, with checking, mortgages, auto and home equity loans, credit cards, investments and more. Mortgage Loan Servicing. Don't Take Our Word For It. Check Out These Testimonials: Slide.