What is the avalanche vs snowball debt payoff method?

The avalanche method directs extra payments to the highest-interest debt first, minimising total interest paid over time. The snowball method pays the smallest balance first, providing quick psychological wins. Avalanche always saves more money; snowball may be more motivating if you need early momentum.

Which debt should I pay off first?

Mathematically, always pay the highest-interest debt first. Credit card debt at 20–25% APR should almost always be prioritised over mortgages (3–7%) or student loans (4–8%). The interest rate difference compounds significantly over years.

How much extra should I pay on debt each month?

Even an extra $50–$100 per month can save thousands in interest and cut years off your payoff timeline. The extra payment reduces principal faster, which reduces future interest charges — creating a positive feedback loop.

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Calculateur de Remboursement — Avalanche vs Boule de Neige

Comparez les stratégies avalanche et boule de neige. Découvrez combien d'intérêts vous économisez et quand vous serez libre de dettes.

L'avalanche économise le plus d'intérêts — $49 intérêts économisés (avalanche vs boule de neige)

Avalanche

Libre de dettes dans 81 mois

Total des intérêts payés: $14,385

Boule de neige

Libre de dettes dans 82 mois

Total des intérêts payés: $14,434

Insights IA

1Concentrez les paiements sur "Credit Card" en premier — votre dette au taux le plus élevé à 19.9%.

Solde restant dans le temps

Your Debts

Nom de la detteSoldeTaux %Paiement minimum

Paiement mensuel supplémentaire$0

$0$1,000

Estimations uniquement — ne constitue pas un conseil financier. Consultez toujours un conseiller qualifié avant d'agir.

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Avalanche vs Snowball: which is better?

Avalanche (mathematically optimal) — pay minimums on all debts, put extra toward the highest APR debt first. Minimises total interest paid.
Snowball (motivational) — pay minimums on all, put extra toward the smallest balance first. Faster early wins, but costs more interest overall.

For most people with similar-sized debts, the difference is small. If your highest-rate debt is also your smallest, both strategies are identical. The best strategy is the one you stick to.