Small wins first — momentum does the rest.
The snowball attacks your smallest balance first, no matter the interest rate. You pay minimums on everything, then throw every extra dollar at the smallest debt until it is gone — then roll that whole payment into the next one. The balances fall like dominoes.
It is not the cheapest method (that is the avalanche). But the best plan is the one you finish — and nothing keeps you going like watching a debt disappear in month three instead of month thirty. If quick wins motivate you, start here.
Avalanche (highest rate first) always costs less in interest. Snowball (smallest balance first) gives faster wins. Studies suggest people stick with the snowball longer — pick the one you will actually finish.
Any amount above your total minimums: side-hustle income, a tax refund, the $200 you freed by canceling subscriptions. It all goes to the current target debt.
Then target the higher APR of the two — you get the snowball win and the avalanche savings at once.
Keep a small starter emergency buffer ($500–$1,000) so one surprise doesn't become new debt. Beyond that, extra dollars usually do more work against 20% debt than in a 4% savings account.