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Calculators

Debt avalanche vs snowball calculator

Pay off several debts: compare the highest-interest-first and the smallest-balance-first methods, in months and interest.

Figures checked: October 2026 · Methodology and sources

Avalanche saves in interest
43.34
Avalanche: debt-free in
2 years 4 months
Avalanche: total interest
1,671.79
Snowball: debt-free in
2 years 4 months
Snowball: total interest
1,715.13

Avalanche pays the highest interest rate first and costs the least. Snowball pays the smallest balance first: it costs more, but the first debt goes sooner, which keeps many people going. A blank result means the payments never clear the debts.

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Avalanche or snowball?

With several debts, you pay the minimum on each and put everything extra on one of them. The avalanche method targets the highest interest rate first; the snowball method targets the smallest balance first. When a debt is gone, its payment rolls over to the next.

The avalanche always costs less interest. The snowball clears the first debt sooner, and that early win keeps many people motivated. The calculator shows both, month by month.

  • Use the interest rate on each statement (the APR).
  • Never pay less than the minimum on any debt.
  • Any extra, even small, shortens both plans.

Frequently asked questions

Which method is better?

The avalanche saves the most money. The snowball is better if quick wins help you stick with the plan. The best plan is the one you keep paying.

What if a payment does not cover the interest?

Then that debt grows. Raise the payment or the extra until each month pays more than the interest charged.

Should I save or pay off debt first?

Keep a small emergency fund first, so a surprise bill does not go back on a card, then attack the debt.

Indicative results. This is not financial advice.

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