What the two methods change
The avalanche sends extra money to the highest APR first. The snowball targets the smallest current balance first. Both continue required minimums and roll available payment money forward as debts reach zero.
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Free debt payoff tool
Debt Payoff Calculator
Compare debt snowball and debt avalanche estimates using the same balances, interest rates, minimums, and extra monthly payment.
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Enter your debts
Use current balances, APRs, and required minimum payments.
Understand the estimate
How to use your result
Change any input to update the estimate instantly. Use current statements and realistic amounts whenever possible.
Assumptions in this estimate
The model applies APR as monthly interest, uses a fixed total monthly debt budget, and does not include new charges, promotional-rate changes, late fees, or lender-specific daily interest calculations.
Before choosing a method
Confirm statement balances, APRs, minimums, and any promotional expiration dates. Past-due or secured accounts may need attention before following a standard payoff order.
Sources and important limits
- How to Reduce Your Debt — Consumer Financial Protection Bureau
- Reducing Debt Worksheet — Consumer Financial Protection Bureau
This calculator provides educational estimates only. It is not financial, tax, legal, credit, or investment advice. Actual outcomes can differ because of timing, account rules, fees, rate changes, and other details.
Want the full payoff schedules?
The Debt Payoff Command Center builds detailed snowball and avalanche schedules you can update over time in Excel.