Debt Payoff Calculator: Snowball vs Avalanche
The avalanche method pays off the debt with the highest interest rate first, which saves the most money. The snowball method pays off the smallest balance first, which gives you a faster first win and keeps you motivated. Add your debts below to see how many months — and how much interest — each method takes.
On top of all minimum payments. This is the money that accelerates payoff.
Avalanche (highest APR first)
3y 2m
Total interest: $1,905.92
Mathematically cheapest — targets the most expensive debt first.
Snowball (smallest balance first)
3y 2m
Total interest: $1,905.92
Fastest first win — clears the smallest balance soonest for momentum.
With $100.00 extra per month, the avalanche method costs $0.00 less in interest than the snowball method. Snowball can still win if early wins keep you motivated to stick with the plan.
Track every loan, EMI, and card balance in Tika and follow a snowball or avalanche plan without a spreadsheet.
Which is better, snowball or avalanche?
Avalanche always pays the least total interest because it kills your most expensive debt first. Snowball can still be the better choice if the motivation from early wins is what keeps you going.
How is the interest calculated?
This calculator applies each debt's APR as monthly interest (APR ÷ 12) on the outstanding balance, then applies minimum payments plus your extra payment each month until every balance reaches zero.
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