Free Debt Calculator
See exactly when you'll be debt-free
Compare snowball vs avalanche payoff methods. Enter your debts, pick a strategy, and get a month-by-month plan to zero.
Enter Your Debts
| Debt Name | Balance ($) | APR (%) | Min Payment ($) | |
|---|---|---|---|---|
For educational purposes only.
How It Works
Snowball or Avalanche?
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Debt Snowball
Pay smallest balances first. Each account you close gives you a psychological win that keeps you going.
- ✓Best for motivation and momentum
- ✓Win quick — close small debts in weeks
- ✓The method Dave Ramsey recommends
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Debt Avalanche
Attack highest interest rates first. You pay the least total interest and get out of debt faster.
- ✓Mathematically optimal — lowest total cost
- ✓Best when high-rate debts are large
- ✓Ideal if you're disciplined and numbers-driven
The bottom line: A Harvard Business Review study found snowball leads to higher completion rates because small wins build momentum. But avalanche saves more money — period. The best method is whichever one you'll actually stick with for 12+ months.
More Free Calculators
Everything you need to plan your payoff
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Credit Card Payoff Calculator
See exactly when each card gets paid off and how much interest you'll save.
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Debt Snowball Calculator
Pay smallest balances first. Build momentum with quick wins.
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Debt Avalanche Calculator
Attack highest interest rates first. Save the most on interest.
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DTI Ratio Calculator
Calculate your debt-to-income ratio before applying for a loan.
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Monthly Budget Calculator
Build a realistic budget that actually has room for debt payments.
Guides & Articles
Real advice on getting out of debt
Debt Consolidation Loans: Pros, Cons & When It Makes Sense
The real math behind consolidation — origination fees, APR thresholds, and how to know if it actually saves you money.
What Happens If You Stop Paying Your Credit Card
A realistic timeline from your first missed payment to charge-off — and what you can do at each stage.
Balance Transfer Strategy: Save $2,400+ in Interest
How I used a 0% APR balance transfer to pay off $8,200 in 14 months — and the 3 mistakes that ruin this for most people.
How to Get Out of Debt with No Money
7 real steps that work when you have nothing left at the end of the month — no side hustle required to start.
Emergency Fund vs Debt Payoff: Which First?
Should you save or pay off debt? The real answer depends on your numbers — not a generic rule.
How to Negotiate with Credit Card Companies
Real scripts to lower your APR, get fees waived, and access hardship programs before you miss a payment.
Common Questions