Upfront costs are fees and any other costs that you pay at a loan closing. This includes mortgage loans, as well as consumer and installment loans, such as home equity, refinancing, personal or auto loans. Upfront costs are also called closing costs. Upfront costs include the amount needed for a down payment, any prepaid interest, loan underwriting fees, and fees that you pay for ancillary services. These include fees for title search, appraisal and credit report.