The Financial Buddy

Debt Payoff Calculator

List each debt with its balance, interest rate, and minimum payment. Add any extra amount you can put toward debt each month to compare payoff timelines.

Minimums only

65 mo

$4,277 total interest

Snowball (smallest first)

35 mo

$1,864 total interest

Avalanche (highest APR first)

35 mo

$1,864 total interest

Snowball pays off the smallest balance first for quick psychological wins; avalanche targets the highest interest rate first to minimize total interest paid. Avalanche is usually cheaper; snowball is often easier to stick with.

Snowball vs. avalanche

The snowball method pays off your smallest balance first regardless of interest rate — it builds momentum through quick wins. The avalanche method targets your highest interest rate first, which minimizes total interest paid over time. Avalanche is mathematically cheaper; snowball tends to have better real-world adherence for people who need motivation to stay consistent.