USA: Loans & debt
Debt Snowball vs Avalanche
List all your debts and the extra amount you can put toward them each month. The calculator runs both popular payoff plans - avalanche (highest interest first) and snowball (smallest balance first) - and shows your debt-free date, total interest and payoff order for each.
How to use the Debt Snowball vs Avalanche
- Add each debt with its balance, APR and minimum payment.
- Enter the extra amount you can pay each month.
- Compare avalanche and snowball results.
- Follow the payoff order of the method you choose.
Formula
Example
With a $6,500 card at 24.9%, an $11,000 car loan at 7.5% and a $1,200 interest-free medical bill, plus $200 extra a month: snowball clears the medical bill in month 5, but avalanche saves about $317 of interest. Both are debt-free in 30 months.
Which should I choose?
- Avalanche - saves the most money
- Snowball - quick wins keep you motivated
- The best plan is the one you will stick with
Related free tools
Frequently asked questions
What happens when a debt is paid off?
Its minimum payment rolls into the next debt - that is the “snowball”.
Should I include my mortgage?
Usually not; most people focus on consumer debt first.
Are my debts saved?
They are kept only in your browser on this device.
What if a minimum does not cover interest?
Raise the payment or call the lender - the balance would grow.
Results are estimates for planning, not financial advice. Confirm important decisions with a qualified professional. Your inputs stay in your browser and are not sent to Soft2Cloud.
Last updated: November 2026