Debt Payoff Calculator
Compare the snowball and avalanche methods to see when you'll be debt-free, how much interest you'll pay, and how much you save with each. No sign-up, and we never store your data.
We show both methods side by side.
Your debts
How much extra you can pay on top of the minimums.
Snowball vs. Avalanche
Snowball
- Debt-free by
- November 2028
- Time to pay off
- 2 years and 5 months
- Total interest
- USD 2,135
- Total paid
- USD 13,735
Avalanche
- Debt-free by
- November 2028
- Time to pay off
- 2 years and 5 months
- Total interest
- USD 2,058
- Total paid
- USD 13,658
How to use this calculator
- Enter your debts. For each one, add a name, the current balance, the annual interest rate (APR), and the monthly minimum payment.
- Add an extra payment. Enter how much more you can pay per month on top of the minimums. That's the real accelerator.
- Pick a method snowball, avalanche, or compare to see them side by side.
- Read the results: your debt-free date, total interest, the order you clear each debt, and the month-by-month schedule.
Snowball vs. avalanche: which is right for you?
The avalanche is the mathematically cheapest option: by attacking the highest-interest debt first, you stop the most expensive one sooner. The snowball, on the other hand, targets the smallest debt first: you pay a little more interest, but gain momentum as debts disappear fast.
There's no single right answer. If progress keeps you motivated, the snowball can help you stick with it. If you want to squeeze every dollar, the avalanche wins. Use compare mode to decide with your own numbers.
Frequently asked questions
What is the debt snowball method?
It's a payoff strategy where you attack the smallest balance first while paying the minimum on the rest. Once the smallest is cleared, that money rolls into the next debt. It's motivating because you see debts disappear quickly.
What is the debt avalanche method?
With the avalanche you pay off the debt with the highest interest rate (APR) first. It's the cheapest option long-term because you knock out the most expensive debt sooner. It usually saves more money than the snowball.
Which is better, snowball or avalanche?
The avalanche almost always means paying less interest. The snowball wins on motivation. If staying consistent is hard for you, the snowball may work better in practice. This calculator shows both so you can decide with real numbers.
Does the calculator store my data?
No. Everything is calculated in your browser and nothing is sent or saved. Reloading the page resets it to the example.
Does an extra payment really speed things up that much?
Yes. Any amount above the minimums goes straight to reducing principal, so you pay less interest and finish sooner. Try raising the extra payment and watch your debt-free date change.
This tool is educational and provides estimates. It is not financial advice. Your actual debt terms may vary depending on your lender.