Debt Avalanche Calculator
Enter up to four debts and an extra payment budget. The avalanche directs every available extra dollar to the highest APR balance first.
Your debts
Debt 1 balance ($)iUse your best current estimate; lender and account terms control. | |
|---|---|
Debt 1 APR (%)iUse your best current estimate; lender and account terms control. | |
Debt 1 minimum ($)iUse your best current estimate; lender and account terms control. | |
Debt 2 balance ($)iUse your best current estimate; lender and account terms control. | |
Debt 2 APR (%)iUse your best current estimate; lender and account terms control. | |
Debt 2 minimum ($)iUse your best current estimate; lender and account terms control. | |
Debt 3 balance ($)iUse your best current estimate; lender and account terms control. | |
Debt 3 APR (%)iUse your best current estimate; lender and account terms control. | |
Debt 3 minimum ($)iUse your best current estimate; lender and account terms control. | |
Debt 4 balance ($)iUse your best current estimate; lender and account terms control. | |
Debt 4 APR (%)iUse your best current estimate; lender and account terms control. | |
Debt 4 minimum ($)iUse your best current estimate; lender and account terms control. | |
Extra monthly budget ($)iUse your best current estimate; lender and account terms control. |
How to use this calculator
- Enter balances, APRs, and minimums for active debts.
- Add an amount above your required minimum payments.
- Use the order and interest estimate to decide whether the avalanche fits your plan.
Results explained
The avalanche prioritizes the highest APR balance, sending minimums to every other debt. It generally minimizes interest when all assumptions stay fixed, though a snowball can be easier to sustain for some people.
Quick reference: avalanche order
The rule is interest-rate priority, with balance as a tie-breaker.
| Item | Detail |
|---|---|
| Priority | Highest remaining APR |
| Other debts | Receive their stated minimums |
| Expected effect | Often less interest than balance-first timing |
APR changes, new borrowing, fees, and creditor minimum-payment formulas can materially change the outcome.
How it’s built
Each month accrues interest at APR/12. The calculated extra budget targets the highest-APR open balance; freed minimums then roll forward.
Example
A $1,200 card at 24.99% is selected before a larger 11.5% loan, but a higher-rate $3,500 card would take priority over both.
FAQ
Does avalanche always save the most interest?
Under fixed rates and equal total payments, it usually does.
Why might I still choose snowball?
Paying off a small balance first can simplify cash flow and reinforce momentum.
What happens after a debt is paid?
Its minimum payment becomes available for the next highest-rate balance.