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Home / Finance & Investing / Debt Payoff Calculator

Debt payoff calculator: avalanche vs snowball

Compare two proven payoff orders side by side: how long until you are debt-free and how much interest you pay. Updated October 23, 2026.

Short answer: Enter up to five debts and an extra monthly amount. The calculator compares two common payoff orders: the avalanche (highest interest rate first, which usually costs the least interest) and the snowball (smallest balance first, which gives quicker early wins). Results are estimates. General information, not financial advice.

Your debts

Nothing you enter leaves your device. Use the balance, interest rate (APR) and minimum payment from your latest statement.

NameBalanceAPR %Minimum

Extra you can add each month, on top of the minimums ($)

Compare payoff plans

How the two methods work

Avalanche: pay every minimum, then put all extra money on the debt with the highest interest rate. When it is paid off, roll that whole payment onto the next highest rate. This usually minimizes total interest.

Snowball: pay every minimum, then put all extra money on the smallest balance. Clearing debts sooner can help some people stay motivated, but it can cost more interest overall.

The best plan is the one you will keep following. The calculator assumes interest is charged monthly at APR divided by 12, that you make no new charges, and that rates stay fixed. Real cards and loans differ, so check your statements.

If you are struggling to make minimum payments, a nonprofit credit counselor can review your options. The National Foundation for Credit Counseling lists member agencies.

Disclaimer: General information and estimates only, not financial, tax or legal advice. Results depend on the accuracy of what you enter.

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