Money calculators
Debt Snowball Calculator
Estimate a debt snowball payoff schedule by listing debts, minimum payments and any extra monthly payment. The snowball method targets the smallest balance first.
How this debt snowball calculator works
The calculator applies monthly interest to each listed debt, pays the entered minimum payments and directs the extra monthly amount to the current snowball target. When a debt is paid off, its minimum payment is redirected in the estimate.
Smallest balance first payoff order
Snowball order targets the smallest current balance first. Interest is still included using each debt's APR, but the ordering method is based on balance rather than rate.
Extra payments and freed-up minimum payments
Extra payments and minimum payments from debts already paid off are rolled toward the next target debt in the estimate. This is a method estimate, not a recommendation or debt counselling plan.
Snowball estimate vs minimum payments only
The optional comparison estimates payoff time and interest if only the listed minimum payments are made, when a full schedule can be calculated.
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
- Snowball order: The snowball method targets the smallest current balance first. Ties use APR 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.
- Minimum-only comparison: The optional comparison estimates payoff using listed minimum payments only, when a full schedule is available.
- General estimate: The calculator excludes new charges, fees, changing APRs, issuer rules, hardship options and debt counselling advice.
FAQs
What is the debt snowball method?
It targets the smallest balance first while continuing minimum payments on other debts.
Does the calculator still include interest rates?
Yes. Interest is applied using each debt's APR even though payoff order is based on balance.
What happens when one debt is paid off?
Its minimum payment is rolled into the amount available for the next target debt.
Can I enter multiple debts?
Yes. Use the debt list for balances, APRs and minimum payments.
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 avalanche?
Snowball targets the smallest balance first; avalanche targets the highest APR first.
Is this financial advice?
No. It is a general estimate of a payoff method.