Debt Snowball vs Avalanche Calculator
Enter up to four debts and compare the snowball method (smallest balance first) against the avalanche method (highest rate first) to see payoff time and interest.
Your numbers
- Snowball payoff
- 36 months
- Avalanche payoff
- 35 months
- Snowball interest
- $7,404
- Avalanche interest
- $6,790
- Snowball
- Avalanche
How the debt snowball vs avalanche calculator works
Both methods pay minimums on every debt and send all extra money to a target debt. When a debt is cleared, its payment rolls into the next target. Avalanche minimizes interest; snowball maximizes early wins.
Example
Using the default inputs (Debt 1 balance: $1,800; Debt 1 APR: 8%; Debt 1 minimum: $50.00; Debt 2 balance: $7,500; Debt 2 APR: 26%; …), the calculator returns interest saved with avalanche of $615. Change any field above to see your own result and charts update instantly.
Good for these goals
Frequently asked questions
Which method is better?
Avalanche always costs the least in interest. Snowball can keep you motivated. The best plan is the one you will follow.
What if I only have two debts?
Set the other balances to zero; they are ignored.
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Estimates are for educational purposes only and are not financial, tax or legal advice. Results depend on your inputs and simplified assumptions; tax figures reflect 2026 federal rules and may differ from your situation. See our disclaimer. © 2026 FinanzCalc.