Debt Snowball Calculator
Knock out smallest debts first.
Enter your numbers and press Calculate.
About the Debt Snowball Calculator
The debt snowball method orders debts from the smallest balance to the largest, regardless of interest rate. You pay minimums on everything and direct any extra money to the smallest balance until it is gone, then roll that freed-up payment to the next one.
This calculator projects a payoff order and timeline for the snowball approach. Its appeal is behavioral: quick early wins can help sustain momentum.
How this works
Monthly simulation — smallest balance first (snowball).
Assumptions
- Each month interest accrues, minimum payments are made, then the extra payment goes to the smallest-balance debt.
- Rates and minimum payments stay constant.
- This is a simulation estimate, not a guarantee.
Frequently asked questions
How is the snowball different from the avalanche method?
The snowball targets the smallest balance first for motivation; the avalanche targets the highest interest rate first to minimize total interest.
Does the snowball cost more in interest?
Usually a little, because higher-rate debts may be paid later. The trade-off is faster visible progress.
What is the "rolled" payment?
When a debt is cleared, its payment amount is added to the payment on the next debt, so the amount attacking each balance grows over time.
Related tools
This calculator provides estimates for educational purposes only and is not personalized financial advice. Rates, taxes, and financial products change — verify with providers and qualified professionals.