How to read the schedule
Why the balance falls slowly at first
Each month, interest is calculated from the outstanding balance. The balance is highest near the beginning, so more of the early payment goes to interest.
As principal falls, monthly interest falls too, and more of the same scheduled payment reduces principal. That process is amortization.
Why taxes and insurance are not in the table
An amortization schedule tracks the mortgage debt only. Property tax, homeowners insurance, PMI, HOA dues, and escrow do not reduce the loan balance.
Use the PITI, PMI, and escrow calculator to estimate the broader monthly housing payment.
Why a lender schedule can differ by a few cents
Lenders may use their own rounding rules, funding date, and daily-interest conventions. This page uses the standard fixed-rate formula and adjusts the final payment to the remaining balance.