You've decided to get out of debt. Then someone says "use the snowball." Someone else says "avalanche is mathematically optimal." Now you're researching payoff methods instead of paying off debt. Let's settle it.
The Debt Snowball
List your debts smallest to largest balance. Pay minimums on all, throw every extra dollar at the smallest. When it's gone, roll that payment into the next smallest. Quick wins, growing momentum.
Best for: anyone who has started and quit before. The early wins keep you going — and the plan you follow beats the plan you abandon.
The Debt Avalanche
List your debts highest to lowest interest rate. Pay minimums on all, attack the highest APR first. You pay less interest overall and finish sooner — on paper.
Best for: disciplined, numbers-driven people who won't lose steam waiting months for the first "paid in full."
So which one actually works?
Honestly? The difference in total interest is usually smaller than people think — often a few hundred dollars on typical balances. But the difference in completion rate is enormous. Studies on goal psychology consistently show small early wins dramatically increase follow-through.
My take: if you've tried and failed before, use the snowball. If you're the spreadsheet type who loves optimization, use the avalanche. The best method is the one you'll still be doing in six months.
Run your own numbers
Guessing keeps you stuck. Plug your balance, APR, and payment into our free debt payoff calculator and see your exact debt-free date — then pick your method and start.