Compare the snowball and avalanche methods side-by-side. Enter your debts and available monthly payment to see which strategy gets you debt-free faster and with less interest paid.
Pay smallest balance first
Payoff Time
52 months
4.3 years
Total Interest Paid
$9,820
Pay highest APR first
Payoff Time
51 months
4.3 years
Total Interest Paid
$8,954
Can't afford extra payments? Explore debt relief options.
Explore Options →Pay highest APR first. Saves the most money in interest. Best for those who are motivated by numbers and long-term savings.
Pay smallest balance first. Provides quick wins to stay motivated. Best for those who need early encouragement to stay on track.
The debt snowball method focuses on paying off your smallest balance first, regardless of interest rate. Once that debt is paid, you roll that payment to the next smallest. It provides quick psychological wins and momentum.
The debt avalanche method targets the highest-interest debt first. Mathematically, this saves the most money in interest over time, though it may take longer to see your first debt eliminated.
The avalanche method typically saves more in total interest. However, the snowball method often leads to better follow-through for people who are motivated by quick wins. The best method is the one you will stick with.
Even an extra $50–$100 per month can dramatically shorten your payoff timeline. Use this calculator to see exactly how different extra payment amounts affect your debt-free date.