Avalanche method: Pay minimum on all debts, then throw extra money at the debt with the highest interest rate. This mathematically saves the most interest. Snowball method: Pay minimum on all debts, then throw extra money at the smallest balance first. You clear debts faster (psychologically motivating), but pay slightly more interest overall.

Research shows the snowball method has a higher success rate because the quick wins keep you motivated. But if you're disciplined, avalanche saves more money. This calculator lets you compare both side-by-side.