Debt Payoff Calculator (Snowball vs Avalanche)
Add your debts and an extra monthly payment to compare the snowball and avalanche strategies — see which gets you debt-free faster and cheaper.
Updated June 2026 · Reviewed by the apitpi team · How we calculate
| Debt | Balance | APR % | Min/mo | |
|---|---|---|---|---|
Total debt: $21,500
❄️ Snowball — smallest balance first
Debt-free in
3 yrs 6 mos
$4,960 total interest
🏔️ Avalanche — highest APR first
Debt-free in
3 yrs 4 mos
$4,225 total interest
Become debt-free with a plan
Both the snowball and avalanche methods work because they focus your extra money on one debt at a time instead of spreading it thin. As each debt is cleared, its payment rolls into the next — accelerating your progress month after month. Edit the table above with your real balances and rates to build your plan.
Frequently asked questions
What is the difference between snowball and avalanche? +
The debt snowball pays off your smallest balance first for quick motivating wins, then rolls that payment into the next debt. The debt avalanche pays off the highest interest rate first, which mathematically saves the most money. This tool runs both and compares them.
Which method should I choose? +
Avalanche always costs less in total interest. But if early wins help you stay motivated, snowball can be worth the small extra cost. The calculator shows exactly how much interest avalanche saves so you can decide.
How does the extra payment work? +
You pay the minimum on every debt, then the extra amount (plus any freed-up minimums from paid-off debts) is directed at the priority debt. This "rolling" payment is what makes both strategies accelerate over time.