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Debt Payoff Calculator — Snowball vs Avalanche

List your debts, set one extra monthly payment, and see exactly when you'd be debt-free under both strategies — with total interest, payoff order, and a visual timeline. Free, private, no signup.

Your debts

On top of all minimums. This is the single biggest lever on your debt-free date.

Snowball vs avalanche — side by side

❄️ Snowball

Pays the smallest balance first. Quick wins keep motivation high.

Debt-free date–
Time to freedom–
Total interest–
Total paid–

Payoff order

    🏔️ Avalanche

    Pays the highest interest rate first. Mathematically cheapest.

    Debt-free date–
    Time to freedom–
    Total interest–
    Total paid–

    Payoff order

      Total balance over time

      ■ Snowball  ■ Avalanche

      Snowball vs avalanche — which should you pick?

      Both strategies use the same engine: every month you pay all your minimums, then throw your extra payment (plus the minimum of any debt you just killed — that's the "snowball" rolling) at one target debt. The only difference is which debt you target.

      The honest answer: the best strategy is the one you'll actually follow for years. Run your numbers above — if avalanche saves you $2,000 but snowball gets you a paid-off card in 4 months, weigh that honestly.

      Three things that matter more than the strategy

      FAQs

      Does it matter which debt I pay first?
      Mathematically, yes — avalanche (highest rate first) always minimises total interest. Behaviourally, snowball's quick wins help many people stay consistent. The calculator shows both so you can see the exact dollar difference for your debts.
      What happens when one debt is paid off?
      Its minimum payment doesn't disappear — it rolls into your attack payment on the next target debt. That's the "snowball" effect, and it's why payoff accelerates over time.
      What if my minimum payment doesn't cover the interest?
      The balance grows every month and the debt never pays off — the calculator will tell you so. Options: pay more than the minimum, negotiate the rate, or look into a consolidation loan or balance transfer.
      Should I include my mortgage?
      Usually no — mortgages have much lower rates and long terms, and this tool assumes minimums stay fixed. Keep it to credit cards, personal loans, auto loans and similar revolving or short-term debt.
      Is my data sent anywhere?
      No. Everything is computed in your browser; nothing leaves your device.
      Disclaimer: Estimates for illustration, computed in your browser — no data leaves your device. Real payoff depends on your lenders' exact interest calculation, fees, and whether minimums change as balances fall. We don't quote live rates. Verify with your lenders before making financial decisions.