See exactly when you'll be debt-free and how much interest you'll save — compare the avalanche and snowball payoff methods side by side.
Your Debts
Add each debt account. The calculator will show you the fastest and cheapest way to pay them all off.
Method Comparison
Payoff Order — Avalanche Method
| Debt | Balance | Rate | Min. Payment | Payoff Month |
|---|
Avalanche Method: Pay minimums on all debts, then throw every extra dollar at the highest-interest debt first. Mathematically optimal — saves the most money and pays off debt fastest. Best for people motivated by numbers and savings.
Snowball Method: Pay minimums on all debts, then attack the smallest balance first regardless of interest rate. Pays off more accounts faster, creating psychological "wins." Research by Dr. David Gal shows this method works better for people who struggle with motivation. The extra interest cost is often modest.
Debt roll-up: Once one debt is paid off, its minimum payment gets added to the next debt's payment — like a snowball growing. This accelerating payment is key to both methods.
⚠️ Results are estimates assuming consistent minimum payments and no new charges. Actual payoff depends on your payment history and lender terms.