Mortgage Discharge Fees by Province (2025): ON, BC, AB, QC, MB, SK

When you pay off your mortgage, refinance, or switch lenders, your old lender must legally remove their charge (lien) from your property’s title. This process is called a mortgage discharge.

While the discharge itself is routine, each province in Canada allows lenders and land titles offices to charge an administrative fee. These discharge fees vary depending on where you live.

For homeowners planning to switch lenders at renewal or pay off their mortgage early, knowing these costs upfront helps avoid surprises.

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What Is a Mortgage Discharge Fee?

A mortgage discharge fee (sometimes called a mortgage release fee) is the cost to:

• Remove the mortgage from your property’s title at the provincial land registry.
• Cover your lender’s administrative work in processing the discharge.

These fees are separate from prepayment penalties (like IRD or 3-month interest). Even if you finish your term penalty-free, you’ll still pay the discharge fee.

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Typical Costs of Mortgage Discharge in Canada

• Range: $60–$400
• Who charges it: Combination of the provincial land registry + your lender
• When you pay: When you sell your home, switch lenders, or refinance

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Mortgage Discharge Fees by Province (2025)

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Why Fees Vary

Discharge costs depend on:

• Provincial rules: Some provinces require more legal steps (e.g., Quebec notarization).
• Lender admin fees: Each bank sets its own admin charge.
• Land registry charges: Provinces collect filing fees for title changes.

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When Do You Pay Discharge Fees?

• When switching lenders at renewal — even if penalty-free, discharge fees apply.
• When refinancing with another lender — to remove and re-register the charge.
• When fully paying off your mortgage — after selling or reaching maturity.

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How to Minimize or Avoid Discharge Costs

1. Ask your new lender to cover them – many lenders reimburse discharge fees to win your business.
2. Check your current lender’s policies – some waive fees for loyal customers refinancing internally.
3. Negotiate with your broker – discharge costs are often negotiable in competitive markets.

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Real-Life Example

• Sarah in Ontario sells her home and closes her mortgage.
• Her bank charges: $300 admin + $78 land registry = $378 discharge fee.
• She didn’t budget for this, but fortunately her new lender offered a cashback promotion covering the cost.

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Key Takeaways

• Mortgage discharge fees in Canada range from $60–$400, depending on province and lender.
• Ontario and Quebec often have the highest costs due to registry and notary requirements.
• Discharge fees are separate from prepayment penalties.
• Many lenders will reimburse these fees if you switch to them.