Avalanche vs snowball calculator

Pay every minimum. All extra cash hits one target. Snowball = smallest balance first. Avalanche = highest APR first. Primer: which method actually wins. One-card twin: credit card payoff. 0% window: balance transfer.

Quick answer: This calculator pays three debts with the same extra dollars two ways: avalanche sends extra to the highest APR, snowball sends extra to the smallest balance. Minimums and APRs are the ones you type.

Three debts

Debt A — balance / APR % / min Debt B — balance / APR % / min Debt C — balance / APR % / min Extra per month ($)

Which costs less

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Ignores late fees, penalty APRs, and 0% promo windows. Keep a one-month cash buffer so the next surprise does not restart the card. Keep any 401(k) match. Educational only — not credit counseling.

What this means for you

What this means for you: avalanche usually costs less interest. Snowball may clear a balance sooner, which is a behavior difference, not a cheaper loan. The gap on the page is this sample's interest and months, not a promise for every set of cards.

How to use this calculator

Open the Debt avalanche vs snowball calculator and keep the sample numbers or replace them with your own. The result updates as you type.
Read the headline figure first, then the breakdown or chart under it.
Use Copy share link if you want those inputs in the URL. The page is an educational estimate, not a filing, approval, or recommendation.

FAQ

What is the avalanche method?

Extra payments go to the highest interest rate while you still pay minimums on the others.

What is the snowball method?

Extra payments go to the smallest balance first. It can cost more interest and finish a single balance sooner.

Does this follow Regulation Z inside one card?

No. The rule that excess over the minimum on one card goes to that card's highest APR is a different rule. This page orders separate debts.

Educational, not financial advice. Page updated October 24, 2026 — no tax, limit, or rate figure was changed in this review.

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