There are two popular methods for paying off multiple debts. The debt avalanche method targets the highest-interest debt first, minimizing total interest paid. The debt snowball method targets the smallest balance first, giving you quick psychological wins. Both methods have you make minimum payments on all debts while directing extra money toward one priority debt. Once that debt is paid off, its payment rolls into the next debt, creating an accelerating "snowball" effect. Our calculator models both strategies with your actual balances and rates so you can see exactly how much each approach costs and how long it takes.
The debt avalanche method prioritizes paying off the debt with the highest interest rate first while making minimum payments on all other debts. Once the highest-rate debt is paid off, you redirect that payment to the next-highest rate. This approach minimizes total interest paid over the life of your debts.
The debt snowball method prioritizes paying off the smallest balance first regardless of interest rate. The idea is that quick wins build momentum and motivation. Once the smallest debt is gone, its payment rolls into the next smallest, creating an accelerating payoff schedule.
Mathematically, the avalanche method always saves more on interest. However, research shows people using the snowball method are more likely to stick with their plan because of the motivational boost from early wins. The best method is the one you will follow consistently.
Even an extra $50–$200 per month can dramatically shorten your payoff timeline. Use the calculator to see exactly how different extra payment amounts affect your debt-free date and total interest paid. The more you can direct toward debt, the faster you become debt-free.
This calculator assumes you stop adding new charges to your debts. For the most accurate results, freeze spending on credit cards while following your payoff plan.
According to the Federal Reserve G.19 release, the average APR on cards actually carrying a balance was about 22.3% as of late 2025, near historic highs. At that rate, interest can exceed the original balance if you only make minimum payments — which is why directing every spare dollar at your highest-rate debt matters so much.
The average balance per cardholder is roughly $6,580 (TransUnion). At a 22.3% APR, paying $150/month takes about 7.5 years and roughly $7,200 in interest, while paying $300/month finishes in about 2.5 years with roughly $2,100 in interest — a savings of about $5,000. See our debt statistics page for the sourced figures.
Compare both debt payoff methods side by side on your actual debts
Pay off your smallest balance first for fast wins and momentum
Attack the highest interest rate first to minimize total interest
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