Debt Payoff Calculator

Compare Debt Snowball (lowest balance first) and Debt Avalanche (highest interest rate first) to eliminate multiple loans and debts.

Calculator Inputs

$
Total across all cards/loans.
%
Weighted average APR.
$
Total cash budgeted each month.
Prioritization strategy.

Calculated Results

Avalanche Method Payoff Time
26 Months (Saves $840 in interest)
Avalanche Total Interest $3,120.00
Snowball Total Interest $3,960.00
Monthly Debt Acceleration Budget $650.00 / month
Values calculate live as you adjust inputs.

About Debt Payoff Calculator

Compares accelerated debt elimination strategies: Debt Avalanche (minimizing total interest) versus Debt Snowball (maximizing behavioral momentum).

What is Debt Payoff Calculator?

Compares accelerated debt elimination strategies: Debt Avalanche (minimizing total interest) versus Debt Snowball (maximizing behavioral momentum).

How to Use This Calculator

  1. Enter total combined debt balance.
  2. Enter average interest rate.
  3. Enter total monthly payment budget.
  4. Compare timeline and interest savings between strategies.

The Mathematical Formula & Variables

Avalanche sorts by descending APR; Snowball sorts by ascending principal balance

Step-by-Step Worked Example

Scenario: $18,000 in debts at 16.5% APR paying $800 monthly.

  1. Avalanche directs extra funds to highest APR loan first.
  2. Payoff completed in 26 months.
  3. Saves $840 in interest compared to paying minimums evenly.

Result: 26 Months to Debt Free

Frequently Asked Questions

Which strategy is better: Snowball or Avalanche?

Avalanche is mathematically optimal because it saves the most money on interest. Snowball provides faster early emotional wins by eliminating individual accounts quicker.