Calculator

Sort Debts: Snowball vs Avalanche

List each balance, APR, and minimum, then add any extra you can put toward debt. Flip between snowball (smallest balance first) and avalanche (highest APR first) to sort timelines and interest.

Use the debt payoff planner when you juggle more than one balance and want a clear order—snowball or avalanche—plus a rough months-to-done and interest total under steady payments.

Your debts

Debt 1

Name

Balance

APR

Minimum payment

Debt 2

Name

Balance

APR

Minimum payment

Extra payment & method

Extra toward debt each month

Applied to one target debt after minimums

Payoff methodAvalancheHighest APR first — usually less interestSnowballSmallest balance first — faster early wins

Results

Months to debt-free

Total interest (model)

$923.10

Total paid (model)

$5,623.10

Suggested order

Card A
Card B

Sorted Finance is an education site. Our tools and writing help you organize questions—they do not replace advice from a licensed professional.

Modeling notes: methodology.

How to use this calculator

List each debt with its own balance, APR, and required minimum payment.
Enter any extra dollars you can put toward debt after all minimums are covered.
Toggle avalanche (highest APR first) and snowball (smallest balance first) to compare.
Re-run after a raise, bonus, or balance transfer so the plan matches your real cash.

What this estimate includes

Month-by-month interest on each open balance
Extra payment applied to one target debt after minimums
Suggested payoff order and estimated interest for the chosen method

What it leaves out

Fees, penalty APRs, and promotional rate cliffs
New charges while you are paying down
Income changes, hardship programs, and settlement offers
Tax effects of forgiven debt

How this calculation works

Sorting several debts is easier when you can see order, months, and interest side by side. This planner keeps every minimum current, then aims your extra payment at one balance until it clears—then rolls that focus to the next debt in line.

Avalanche usually reduces total interest. Snowball often feels faster because small balances disappear first. Neither method replaces a hardship program, settlement, or credit counseling when those are needed.

Pair this tool with the credit card payoff calculator for a single revolving balance, and read snowball vs avalanche for the behavioral tradeoffs.

Formula

Each month: interest → minimums → extra to one target

Interest accrues on each open balance (APR ÷ 12). Minimum payments apply to every debt. Remaining extra dollars go to the current focus debt: highest APR (avalanche) or smallest balance (snowball).

Worked example

Two cards—$3,200 at 22.9% APR ($95 minimum) and $1,500 at 19.9% APR ($45 minimum)—plus $150 extra: avalanche attacks the 22.9% card first; snowball clears the $1,500 card first. Switch methods in the form to compare months and interest under the same cash.

Quick comparison

Round-number scenarios for orientation only—not quotes or approvals.

Method	Focus rule	Best when	Watch-out
Avalanche	Highest APR	You want lower interest	Progress can feel slow at first
Snowball	Smallest balance	You need quick closures	May pay more interest

Practical tips

Minimums always come first

The model pays every minimum before directing extra to the focus debt. Skipping a minimum to “speed up” another balance can trigger fees that this tool does not show.

Avalanche usually saves interest

If you can stick with either method, highest-APR-first typically costs less interest. Snowball can still win if the early wins keep you paying consistently.

One APR bucket at a time

Split a card with a promo balance and a standard balance into two lines if the APRs differ. Mixing them hides which dollars should go first.

Bottom line

Choose the order you will follow for the next 90 days, automate minimums, and point every extra dollar at one target. Recalculate when balances or rates change.

Frequently asked questions

Which method should I choose—snowball or avalanche?

Avalanche (highest APR first) usually costs less interest if you stick with it. Snowball (smallest balance first) can be easier to follow because debts disappear sooner. Pick the method you will fund consistently.

Do I still pay minimums on every debt?

Yes. The planner assumes every minimum is paid each month, then applies your extra payment to one focus debt. Skipping minimums can trigger fees and damage credit—this tool does not model those costs.

What if my payment does not cover interest?

If minimums plus extra cannot shrink a balance, the model may report that payoff does not finish in time. Raise the extra payment or lower rates (for example via a reputable refinance) until balances decline.

Can I include a mortgage here?

You can, but most people keep the primary mortgage in its own plan and use this tool for consumer debts (cards, personal loans, auto). Mixing a huge mortgage can dominate the order in unhelpful ways.

Are results a debt settlement offer?

No. This is an educational schedule from the numbers you enter. Creditors are not bound by it, and it is not counseling or legal advice.