The avalanche saves more money. The snowball gives faster wins. Enter your debts and see exactly which strategy works better for your situation.
Avalanche: Pay minimums on all, throw extra at highest APR first — saves the most interest. Snowball: Pay minimums on all, throw extra at smallest balance first — fastest psychological wins. Both beat only making minimums by a wide margin.
💰 Your Extra Monthly Payment
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💳 Debt 1
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💳 Debt 2
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💳 Debt 3 (optional)
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Recommended Strategy
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Calculating your best path...
Avalanche — Months to Free
0
Highest APR first
Avalanche — Total Interest
$0
Total interest paid
Snowball — Months to Free
0
Smallest balance first
Snowball — Total Interest
$0
Total interest paid
Strategy Comparison
Avalanche — debt-free date—
Snowball — debt-free date—
Time difference—
Interest difference (avalanche saves)—
First debt paid off—
Cut your interest rate to pay off faster
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Frequently Asked Questions
Which is better — avalanche or snowball? ▾
Mathematically, the avalanche always saves more money by targeting the highest interest rate first. The snowball is better for psychology — paying off small balances quickly creates momentum and motivation. Research shows the snowball is more effective for people who struggle with consistency because the early wins keep them on track. If you can stay disciplined, choose avalanche. If you need motivation, choose snowball.
How much difference does the extra payment make? ▾
Dramatically. Even an extra $50-100/month on top of minimums can cut years off your payoff timeline and save thousands in interest. The math works because every dollar of principal reduction eliminates future interest on that dollar for the remaining life of the debt. On a $10,000 balance at 22% APR, going from $200/month to $300/month cuts payoff time from 83 months to 44 months and saves over $2,000 in interest.
Should I use savings to pay off credit card debt? ▾
Generally yes if the credit card APR is significantly higher than what your savings earn. If your card charges 22% and savings earn 5%, paying off the card gives you a guaranteed 22% return. Keep enough emergency fund (1-3 months expenses) before paying down debt aggressively — otherwise a surprise expense forces you back onto the card, defeating the purpose.