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Debt Payoff Calculator (Snowball vs Avalanche)

Got several debts? Enter up to five, add any extra you can pay each month, and see when you'll be debt-free with the avalanche (highest interest first) or snowball (smallest balance first) method.

By the CalcKite team · Last reviewed 19 Oct 2026 · Cite · Embed

How to use the Debt Payoff Calculator (Snowball vs Avalanche)

Fill in the fields on the left. Results, charts and the breakdown update instantly as you type or move a slider. Pick your country at the top of the page to switch currency.

Formula

Each month: interest is added to every debt, minimum payments are made, and all extra money (plus the minimums of debts already paid off) goes to the target debt — highest APR (avalanche) or smallest balance (snowball).

Frequently asked questions

Avalanche or snowball?

Avalanche saves the most interest. Snowball pays off small debts quickly, which keeps many people motivated. Both beat paying only minimums.

What if I can't pay extra?

Even rolling over the minimum of each debt you pay off (the 'snowball' effect) speeds things up considerably.

Cite or link to this calculator

Using this calculator in an article, report or assignment? You can cite it like this:

CalcKite. (2026). Debt Payoff Calculator (Snowball vs Avalanche) [Online calculator]. https://www.calckite.com/debt-payoff-calculator/

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<a href="https://www.calckite.com/debt-payoff-calculator/">Debt Payoff Calculator (Snowball vs Avalanche)</a> by CalcKite

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Results are estimates for information only and are not financial, tax or legal advice. Tax rules, interest rates and fees change, so confirm important numbers with your bank, employer or a qualified adviser. Read our disclaimer.