Debt Avalanche Calculator
The avalanche method pays extra toward your highest-APR debt first, minimizing total interest. See exactly what extra payments save you.
How to use this calculator
- Enter debt balance.
- Enter aPR.
- Enter current monthly payment.
- Enter extra payment per month.
- Your results appear instantly below and update as you change the numbers.
How this calculator works
This calculator models a single debt: your current payment determines the baseline payoff, and adding extra each month shortens the timeline. In a real avalanche, you'd apply the same logic across all debts — minimums everywhere, the extra going to the highest APR first, then rolling each freed-up payment to the next debt.
Frequently asked questions
Avalanche vs snowball — which is better?
Avalanche saves the most interest because it attacks the highest APR first. Snowball targets the smallest balance first for psychological wins. The avalanche wins on math; the snowball wins on motivation — pick what you'll stick with.
Should I pay off debt or invest the extra?
Paying off debt is a guaranteed, tax-free return equal to your APR. A credit card at 24% APR beats almost any investment — pay it down before investing beyond your 401(k) match.
What if I have many small debts?
List them by APR, put every extra dollar on the highest one, and keep minimums on the rest. As each is paid off, roll its minimum payment into the next — that's the full avalanche sequence.
Disclaimer: Results are estimates for general information only and do not constitute financial, tax, or legal advice. Figures reflect 2026 rules and may change. Always confirm current limits and consult a qualified professional before making decisions. Official figures: IRS.gov · 2026 limits per IRS tax inflation adjustments.