Debt Snowball Calculator
List your debts, add any extra monthly payment, and see when you will be debt-free. Compare the snowball (smallest balance first) and avalanche (highest rate first) methods.
Compare your options
| Method | Months | Interest paid |
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Payoff order
Show month-by-month schedule
How the debt snowball works
Every month, interest is added to each balance, then you pay every minimum. The snowball is your extra payment plus the freed-up minimums from debts you have already cleared. It all goes to one target debt at a time:
Snowball order: smallest balance first
Avalanche order: highest interest rate first
Cleared debt's minimum -> rolls into the next target
Snowball clears whole debts fastest for motivation; avalanche saves the most interest. We simulate both plus a minimums-only baseline so you can see the trade-off. All math is done in whole cents to avoid rounding drift.
Educational estimate. Confirm APRs, fees and minimums with your statements.
Frequently asked questions
Snowball vs avalanche, which is better?
Avalanche (highest interest rate first) saves the most money mathematically. Snowball (smallest balance first) clears whole debts sooner for quick wins and motivation. This tool shows both so you can choose.
Do minimum payments count toward the snowball?
Yes. You always pay every minimum. The snowball is your extra payment plus the freed-up minimums from debts you have already cleared, all aimed at the target debt.
What happens when a debt is paid off?
Its minimum payment rolls into the pool and gets added to the next target debt the following month. That growing payment is the snowball effect.
Why does my minimum need to cover the interest?
If a debt's minimum is smaller than its monthly interest, the balance grows every month and never gets paid off. The calculator flags this so you can raise the payment.
Is this financial advice?
No. It is an educational estimate. Confirm APRs, fees and minimums with your statements, and speak to a qualified advisor about your situation.
Financial disclaimer: This calculator is for general information and education only. It is an estimate, not financial advice. Confirm balances, rates, fees and minimum payments with your statements, and consult a qualified advisor about your situation.