Debt tools

Debt repayment strategy calculator

Compare Snowball vs Avalanche using a single monthly budget. See your projected debt-free month, total interest, and a month-by-month schedule.

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This tool uses simplified assumptions (fixed APRs, monthly payments). Results are estimates and may not match lender statements.

How this works
  • Add each debt’s balance, APR, and minimum payment.
  • Optionally add an extra monthly amount to accelerate payoff.
  • We simulate month-by-month repayment with rollover.
For information only; not financial advice.

Your debts and monthly payment plan

Enter each debt’s balance, APR, and minimum monthly payment. We’ll simulate month-by-month repayment using two approaches and show the difference in time and interest.

Global settings
Used for display only.
This tool currently supports monthly payments only.
We’ll project a debt-free date from this month.
Added on top of minimums and applied to your target debt each month.
Recommended for realistic totals.
Important behavior (rollover)
You’ll always pay at least each debt’s minimum while it exists. When a debt is paid off, its minimum payment is automatically freed up and added to your extra payment pool, accelerating the remaining debts.
Debt list
Debt name Balance APR % Minimum / month

About this debt payoff tool

This section explains the methods in plain language and answers common questions. The calculator does not replace personalised guidance.

This calculator helps you plan how to pay off multiple debts using a consistent monthly budget. You enter each debt’s balance, APR (interest rate), and minimum monthly payment. Then you can add an extra amount you’re willing to pay each month on top of minimums.

The tool runs two common repayment strategies and shows a side-by-side comparison: how long it may take to become debt-free, the projected debt-free month, and the total interest paid. It also generates a month-by-month schedule so you can understand how payments and balances change over time.

A key feature is rollover. When one debt is fully paid, the minimum payment you used to send to it doesn’t disappear — it becomes available to pay down the remaining debts, which can noticeably speed up payoff.

What is the snowball method?

Snowball means you focus any extra money on the smallest balance first (while still paying minimums on everything else). The idea is to clear individual debts sooner, which can feel motivating and easier to stick with.

What is the avalanche method?

Avalanche means you focus extra money on the highest APR first (again, minimums on the rest). Because higher rates usually cost more over time, avalanche often reduces total interest, especially when rates vary a lot.

FAQ

Which method usually pays less interest?
In many cases, avalanche pays less interest because it targets the highest rate first. However, results depend on your balances, rates, and monthly budget.
Why might snowball feel easier?
Snowball can create earlier wins by paying off small balances sooner. Some people find that progress more visible, which can help consistency.
What if my minimum payments don’t cover interest?
If your total monthly payment can’t cover the interest being added each month, balances won’t fall. The tool will flag this and suggest what to change so your plan can pay down.
Does extra payment always help?
In general, paying more reduces interest over time and shortens payoff. The biggest impact usually comes from consistently adding extra and letting rollover compound your progress.
Is this financial advice?
No. This calculator is for information and planning. It uses simplified assumptions and may not match your lender’s exact calculations or fees.