Debt Payoff Calculator
Compare Debt Snowball vs Debt Avalanche – Become Debt-Free Faster
Debt Avalanche
(Lowest Interest First)
Debt Snowball
(Smallest Balance First)
How to Get Out of Debt Fast in 2025 – Free Calculator
Over 80% of American households carry some form of debt. The average person now owes $104,215 (including mortgage). This free debt payoff calculator shows you exactly when you’ll be debt-free using the two most popular strategies: Debt Avalanche (saves most money) and Debt Snowball (Dave Ramsey’s method for maximum motivation).
Debt Snowball vs Debt Avalanche: Which One Wins?
Debt Snowball → Pay smallest balance first → Quick wins keep you motivated
Research from Harvard Business Review and Northwestern University shows that people using the Snowball method are 15–20% more likely to finish their debt payoff journey — even though they pay slightly more interest.
Real-Life Example (2025 Numbers)
You owe $32,000 total (credit cards + personal loan) at an average 21% interest rate and can pay $1,100 per month:
- Debt Avalanche: Debt-free in 36 months, total interest = $8,940
- Debt Snowball: Debt-free in 39 months, total interest = $9,680
- Difference: Snowball costs $740 extra but keeps most people going
Average Debt Payoff Times by Debt Level (2025)
| Total Debt | Monthly Payment | Avalanche Payoff | Snowball Payoff |
|---|---|---|---|
| $10,000 | $500 | 23 months | 24 months |
| $25,000 | $800 | 38 months | 41 months |
| $50,000 | $1,500 | 42 months | 46 months |
| $100,000 (no mortgage) | $3,000 | 44 months | 49 months |
7 Proven Steps to Pay Off Debt Faster in 2025
- Stop adding new debt (freeze your credit cards)
- List all debts from smallest to largest (or highest interest)
- Negotiate lower interest rates (many succeed!)
- Use the calculator above to pick your strategy
- Cut expenses & boost income (side hustle!)
- Automate extra payments
- Celebrate every debt you crush
Frequently Asked Questions
Is Debt Snowball or Avalanche better?
Debt Avalanche saves more money. Debt Snowball has a higher success rate because of psychology.
How much should I pay monthly to get out of debt fast?
Most experts recommend 20% of your take-home pay. Even $200–300 extra per month makes a massive difference.
Does the debt payoff calculator work for student loans and car loans?
Yes! Just enter your total balance and average interest rate.