Snowball method
Focuses on clearing the smallest balance first while paying at least the minimum on others. Some people find this motivating because they see individual debts disappear sooner.
Tool · Debt methods
Snowball vs Avalanche debt method tool (UK)
This tool lets you compare two common ways of prioritising unsecured debts: Snowball and Avalanche. It uses the details you enter to show example payoff timelines. It is general information only and not financial advice. For a broader picture of your finances, try our Budget planner to map income, expenses and savings. If you’d like to model individual loan payments, visit the Monthly payment estimator, and to see how your debt payments compare to your income you can use our Debt‑to‑income check.
Avalanche method
Focuses on the highest interest rate first while paying at least the minimum on others. This may reduce the amount of interest paid over time, based on the numbers entered.
Add your unsecured debts
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Extra payment on top of your normal minimum payments
If possible, this is any additional amount you can afford to put toward your debts each month (not including your minimum payments).
Example payoff timelines
Snowball
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Avalanche
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Total debt included
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Starting monthly payment
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Starts at –.
Estimated interest saving*
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Comparison between the two methods, based on your inputs.
Impact of your extra payment
Snowball method
Avalanche method
How to read these results
These results are based only on the figures you entered and a simple model. Real-life outcomes can be different. This tool doesn't assess what is right or suitable for you.
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Frequently asked questions
Which method will save me the most money?
The avalanche method typically results in the lowest total interest because it prioritises paying off debts with the highest interest rate first. However, some people prefer the snowball method because clearing smaller balances early on can provide motivation to stay on track.
What types of debts should I include?
This tool is designed for unsecured borrowing such as credit cards, personal loans and store cards. You can include other debts, but the calculations don’t account for secured lending rules or fees.
Can I add extra payments?
Yes. Use the extra monthly payment field to see how overpayments could reduce the payoff timeline. If you’d like to model how different loan scenarios affect your payment size, try our Monthly payment estimator. The tool applies your extra payment equally across all methods.
Is my data stored or shared?
No. Everything you enter stays in your browser and is not saved or transmitted. Read our privacy policy for more details. This calculator is for illustration only and doesn’t constitute financial advice.
Related tools
Explore our other calculators to help you manage your money and debts:
- Budget planner – map out your income, expenses and savings for a monthly snapshot.
- Monthly payment estimator – see how loan amount, interest rate and term affect your payments.
- Debt‑to‑income check – understand how your debt payments compare to your income.
Need more general information about formal debt solutions?
If you're struggling with debt, you may want to learn more about options like DMPs, IVAs or DROs. You can read impartial guidance at MoneyHelper or speak to a free debt charity such as StepChange, National Debtline or Money Advice Trust.
Some links on this site are affiliate links. If you click through and choose to act on the information provided, we will receive a commission at no extra cost to you. General information only; not financial advice.
This tool is general information only and does not constitute financial advice. Always speak to an FCA-regulated adviser or free debt charity before making decisions about debt solutions.