Zehum
Free tool

Free Debt Payoff Calculator (Snowball vs Avalanche)

Compare the snowball and avalanche methods to see which clears your debt faster.

DebtBalanceAPR %Min/mo

Avalanche (highest APR first)

Lowest cost
Debt-free in
3 yr 3 mo
Total interest
$3,499

Snowball (smallest balance first)

Debt-free in
3 yr 3 mo
Total interest
$3,499

Avalanche usually saves the most interest; snowball gives faster early wins for motivation. The highlighted method costs less here.

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Compare snowball vs avalanche in seconds

Getting out of debt is mostly about strategy and consistency. This calculator runs two proven payoff strategies side by side using your real balances, interest rates, and budget, then shows you which clears your debt sooner and which costs less in total interest.

How to use the debt payoff calculator

List each debt with its balance, APR, and minimum monthly payment. Then enter the total amount you can put toward debt each month. We pay the minimum on everything and direct the rest to one target debt — highest APR for avalanche, smallest balance for snowball — rolling each cleared payment into the next debt (the “snowball” effect).

The fastest way to get debt-free

Whichever method you choose, the biggest lever is the size of your monthly budget. Even an extra $100 a month can cut months off your payoff date and save hundreds in interest. Use our budget planner to find that extra cash, and avoid taking on new high-interest balances while you pay down the old ones. The avalanche method is usually highlighted as “lowest cost,” but if early wins keep you going, snowball's small psychological boost is worth a lot.

Frequently asked questions

What's the difference between the snowball and avalanche methods?

The debt avalanche puts every spare dollar toward your highest-interest debt first, which mathematically saves the most money. The debt snowball targets your smallest balance first, giving you a quick win that builds motivation. Both pay the minimum on all other debts.

Which method should I choose?

If saving the most money matters most, use avalanche. If you need momentum and the satisfaction of clearing accounts to stay motivated, use snowball. The difference in total interest is often smaller than people expect, so the best method is the one you'll actually stick with.

What is my 'monthly budget for debt'?

It's the total amount you can put toward all your debts combined each month — the sum of every minimum payment plus any extra. The calculator pays minimums on everything, then throws the leftover at your priority debt.

Does this account for interest accruing while I pay?

Yes. Each month we add interest to every outstanding balance based on its APR before applying your payments, so the payoff time and total interest are realistic.

Why does the calculator say my budget is too low?

If your monthly budget is less than the sum of all minimum payments, the debts can't be paid down. Increase your budget above the combined minimums to make progress.

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