Debt Payoff Priority Calculator
Compare avalanche vs snowball debt payoff strategies.
Enter your debts to see which method saves the most money and time.
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Payoff Strategy Comparison
Debt payoff strategies help you pay off multiple debts efficiently. The two main approaches are:
Avalanche Method (mathematically optimal):
- Pay minimums on all debts
- Put extra money toward the highest interest rate debt first
- When that’s paid off, roll that payment to the next highest rate
Snowball Method (psychologically motivating):
- Pay minimums on all debts
- Put extra money toward the smallest balance first
- When that’s paid off, roll that payment to the next smallest
Avalanche saves more money in total interest paid. Snowball gives faster wins, which keeps motivation high.
Example with 3 debts:
- $5,000 at 22% (credit card)
- $15,000 at 6% (car loan)
- $2,000 at 18% (personal loan)
Avalanche order: Credit card → Personal loan → Car loan Snowball order: Personal loan → Credit card → Car loan
Tips:
- Either method beats making only minimum payments
- Consider a balance transfer (0% intro APR) for high-rate debt
- Automate payments to stay consistent