Debt Snowball vs Avalanche Calculator

List your debts and an extra monthly amount. We'll compare paying smallest-balance-first (snowball) with highest-rate-first (avalanche).

Quick answer

A debt snowball vs avalanche calculator compares two payoff orders for multiple debts using the same monthly budget. Avalanche pays the highest-interest debt first and always costs the same or less interest; snowball clears the smallest balance first for quicker wins. Freed-up minimums roll into the next debt.

Debt 1
$
%
$
Debt 2
$
%
$
Debt 3
$
%
$
Debt 4 (optional)
$
%
$
Extra
$
Avalanche: debt-free in
3 yrs 2 mo
Avalanche: total interest
$4,386
Snowball: debt-free in
3 yrs 2 mo
Snowball: total interest
$4,386
With $23,000 of debt and $200 extra each month, the avalanche method (highest interest first) clears it in 3 yrs 2 mo with $4,386 interest. The snowball method (smallest balance first) takes 3 yrs 2 mo and costs $4,386. Here both orders cost about the same, so choose whichever keeps you motivated.

Key takeaways

  • Avalanche minimizes total interest.
  • Snowball gives faster early wins.
  • Both keep your total monthly payment constant.
Debt avalanche — Paying minimums on all debts and sending every extra dollar to the highest-APR debt first.

How the debt snowball vs avalanche calculator works

Both methods keep your total monthly payment constant. When a debt is paid off, its minimum payment rolls into the next target. Avalanche minimizes interest mathematically; snowball delivers faster first wins.

Formula

Monthly budget = sum of minimum payments + extra Each month: add interest (balance × APR ÷ 12), pay every minimum, send the rest to the target debt. Snowball target = smallest balance · Avalanche target = highest APR

Standard formula. Further reading: CFPB – Credit cards

Worked example

Two debts — $2,000 at 5% and $5,000 at 24% — with $350 a month: avalanche attacks the 24% card first and pays less total interest than snowball, which clears the $2,000 loan first.

Change any number above and the plain-English explanation updates instantly with your own figures.

Frequently asked questions

Which method saves more money?

The avalanche method always pays the same or less interest, because it targets the most expensive debt first.

Why do people choose snowball?

Paying off a small balance quickly gives a motivational win, which helps many people stick with the plan.

What if two debts have the same rate?

Ties are broken by the smaller balance, so both methods behave sensibly.

Should I include my mortgage?

Usually not. These methods are for consumer debts like cards, personal and car loans.

What counts as the extra payment?

Any amount above the total of your minimums that you can commit each month.

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Results are estimates for educational purposes and are not financial advice.

Written and reviewed by Muhammad Asif, founder of CalcPane · Formulas verified by automated tests · Updated