Debt Snowball vs Avalanche Calculator
Compare the debt snowball and debt avalanche payoff methods. See which strategy saves more money or provides faster psychological wins.
Your Debts
Enter your debts with balances, interest rates, and minimum payments
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Strategy Comparison
Debt Snowball
Pay smallest balance first for quick wins
Debt Avalanche
Pay highest interest first to save money
Recommendation
Enter your debts to see which strategy works best for you.
Payoff Timeline Comparison
| Debt | Snowball Payoff | Avalanche Payoff |
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Debt Snowball Method
Popularized by Dave Ramsey, the snowball method focuses on paying off the smallest debt first while making minimum payments on others. Once the smallest is paid off, roll that payment into the next smallest.
Pros: Quick wins build motivation and momentum
Cons: May pay more in interest over time
Debt Avalanche Method
The avalanche method targets the highest-interest debt first while making minimum payments on others. This mathematically optimal approach minimizes total interest paid.
Pros: Saves the most money on interest
Cons: May take longer to see first debt paid off
Which Method Should You Choose?
Choose Snowball if you need motivation and quick wins to stay on track. Choose Avalanche if you're disciplined and want to save the most money. Both work - the best method is the one you'll stick with!
Frequently Asked Questions
The avalanche method always saves more money mathematically because it eliminates high-interest debt first. However, the difference may be small if your interest rates are similar.
Yes! Some people start with the snowball for quick motivation, then switch to avalanche once they're in the habit. The key is consistent extra payments toward one debt at a time.
Consolidation can simplify payments and potentially lower rates, but it doesn't eliminate debt faster on its own. You still need a payoff strategy and discipline to avoid running up new debt.