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Crush your debt
with a plan
Enter your debts below. We'll compare Snowball vs Avalanche strategies and show exactly how much time and money you can save.
Avalanche Method
Pay highest interest rate first. Saves the most money mathematically.
Snowball Method
Pay smallest balance first. Gives quick wins to keep you motivated.
Adding $200/month extra gets you debt free 3y sooner and saves you $3,747 in interest — that's 18d of your life you get back.
Snowball vs Avalanche: Which debt payoff method is best?
There are two popular strategies for paying off multiple debts. The Avalanche method targets the debt with the highest interest rate first, which saves you the most money mathematically. The Snowball method targets the smallest balance first, giving you quick psychological wins that keep you motivated. Research shows that while the Avalanche method is mathematically optimal, many people find more success with the Snowball method because the quick wins keep them committed to their plan. Our calculator compares both methods side-by-side so you can see exactly how much each approach costs and how long each takes.
The power of extra payments
Even a small extra payment each month can dramatically accelerate your debt payoff. Adding just $200 per month to your debt payments could save you thousands in interest and get you debt-free years sooner. The key is directing that extra money to one debt at a time (either the highest-rate or smallest-balance debt) rather than spreading it across all debts equally. Once one debt is paid off, you roll that entire payment into the next debt — creating a snowball effect that grows more powerful with each debt eliminated. Our calculator shows you exactly how much time and money extra payments save.
How to create a debt payoff plan
Start by listing all your debts with their balances, interest rates, and minimum payments. Then decide how much extra you can afford to pay each month beyond the minimums. Choose your strategy — Avalanche for maximum savings or Snowball for motivation — and commit to it. Automate your payments so you never miss one. Track your progress monthly and celebrate each debt you eliminate. Our calculator makes this first step easy by showing you a clear timeline and the exact savings each approach delivers.
Frequently Asked Questions
Which is better: Snowball or Avalanche?
Mathematically, Avalanche always saves more money because you eliminate the most expensive debt first. However, studies show people using the Snowball method are more likely to stick with their plan because quick wins build confidence. The best method is the one you'll actually follow through on. Our calculator shows you both so you can decide.
Should I pay off debt or invest?
As a general rule, if your debt interest rate is higher than what you'd earn investing (historically ~7-10% for stocks), pay off the debt first. High-interest credit card debt (15-25%) should almost always be paid off before investing. However, always contribute enough to get any employer 401(k) match — that's free money. Our calculator helps you see how much your debt interest is really costing you.
How does debt affect my credit score?
Carrying high balances relative to your credit limits (high utilisation) hurts your credit score. Paying down debt, especially credit card debt, typically improves your score significantly. Making consistent on-time payments is the single most important factor in your credit score. Having a debt payoff plan helps you stay consistent.
What if I can't afford extra payments?
Even $25 extra per month makes a difference over time. Look for ways to reduce expenses or increase income temporarily. Consider selling items you don't need, cutting subscriptions, or picking up a side gig. Every extra dollar directed at your highest-priority debt accelerates your payoff date. Our calculator lets you experiment with different extra payment amounts to find what works for you.
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