Money calculators
Debt Avalanche Calculator
Estimate a debt avalanche payoff schedule by listing debts, minimum payments and any extra monthly payment. The avalanche method targets the highest APR first.
How this debt avalanche calculator works
The calculator applies monthly interest to each listed debt, pays minimum payments and directs extra available payment to the active debt with the highest APR.
Highest APR first payoff order
Avalanche order targets the highest APR first. If APRs are tied, the calculator uses balance and then input order as tie-breakers.
Extra payments and freed-up minimum payments
Extra payments and minimum payments from debts already paid off are redirected to the next avalanche target in the estimate.
Avalanche estimate vs minimum payments only
The optional minimum-only comparison estimates time and interest using the listed minimum payments only, when a full schedule can be calculated.
Snowball comparison note
The avalanche calculator can show a compact snowball comparison using the same inputs. It is informational only and does not recommend either method.
What this calculator does not include
This calculator does not include new charges, late fees, changing APRs, issuer-specific minimum payment formulas, payment allocation rules, hardship options, consolidation choices or credit counselling advice.
Key terms and assumptions
- Avalanche order: The avalanche method targets the highest APR first. Ties use balance and then input order.
- Monthly interest: Each debt accrues monthly interest using APR divided by 12.
- Minimum payments: Minimum payments are applied to active debts before the extra payment is directed to the current target.
- Freed-up payments: When a debt is paid off, its minimum payment is redirected to the next target in the estimate.
- Snowball comparison: The optional snowball comparison uses the same shared payoff engine and inputs, but does not replace the full snowball calculator.
- General estimate: The calculator excludes new charges, fees, changing APRs, issuer rules, hardship options and debt counselling advice.
FAQs
What is the debt avalanche method?
It targets the debt with the highest APR first while continuing minimum payments on other debts.
Why does avalanche focus on APR?
Higher APR debts generally add interest faster, so this method prioritises the most expensive rate first.
What happens when one debt is paid off?
Its minimum payment is rolled into the amount available for the next target debt.
Can I compare avalanche with snowball?
This page can include a short comparison note, while the full snowball details are on the snowball calculator.
What if a minimum payment does not cover interest?
The calculator warns that the debt may not pay down under the assumptions entered.
Does this include new charges or fees?
No. It assumes no new debt, late fees or changing APRs.
How is this different from snowball?
Avalanche targets the highest APR first; snowball targets the smallest balance first.
Is this financial advice?
No. It is a general estimate of a payoff method.