<prompt> Human: In one year I will be debt-free except for my mortgage. I have run the numbers and can pay off the mortgage about 15 years early. Should I pay off the mortgage, at 4.6 interest, or keep the mortgage and use the interest write-off for my taxes? I make about 70Kyr with no other dependents or exemptions besides myself.Additional complicating factor: Should I max my 401k or throw absolutely everything at my mortgage? If I did that I could pay it off 20 years early.Thank you.  <response>: The interest savings youll get by actually paying off the principal will clearly outweigh any tax write-off youll get for that interest.In addition, it sounds like you are still young. Keep in mind that you may want or need a larger house at some point kids, new job, etc. By paying your toward your principal, you will have more equity when it comes time to upgrade.The usual advice applies: make sure you have adequate savings in case of emergency, contribute regularly to your 401k, etc. Its good to have a goal... make the extra payments when you can, but dont forego a balanced approach or neglect your portfolio. 