Avalanche vs snowball side-by-side — enter your debts and see your debt-free date.
Your Debts
$
Enter the total amount you can put toward debt each month. Extra above minimums goes toward your target debt.
⚠️ Budget Warning: Your monthly budget of is less than the total minimum payments of . You need at least /month to cover minimums. Consider contacting creditors about hardship programs or debt consolidation.
Smallest balance first. Builds momentum with quick wins — great for staying motivated.
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months to debt-free
Debt-Free Date—
Total Interest Paid—
Total Paid—
Payoff Order
$0
Avalanche saves this much more than Snowball
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the debt avalanche method?
The avalanche method pays minimum payments on all debts, then puts any extra money toward the debt with the highest interest rate. Once that's paid off, you move to the next highest rate. This saves the most money in interest over time.
What is the debt snowball method?
The snowball method pays minimums on all debts, then puts extra money toward the smallest balance first. Each time a debt is eliminated, that payment rolls into the next. This builds psychological momentum through quick wins.
Which method is better?
Mathematically, avalanche wins — it always saves more interest. But the best method is the one you'll stick with. Research shows that people who pay off small debts quickly (snowball) are more likely to stay motivated and reach debt freedom. Use this calculator to see the exact dollar difference and decide for yourself.
How much extra should I pay each month?
Even $50–100 extra per month can dramatically cut your payoff timeline and interest. Use this calculator to experiment — try increasing your budget by $100 and see how many months it saves.
What if I can't afford the minimum payments?
Contact creditors immediately about hardship programs — many will reduce minimums temporarily. Consider a non-profit credit counseling agency (NFCC.org) for a debt management plan. Debt consolidation loans can also combine multiple payments into one lower payment.
