I’ve watched people “snowball” three small cards beautifully while a fourth sat at 26.9% APR like a leak in the basement. Motivation matters—but so does the cost of waiting on expensive money. The fix isn’t shame; it’s visibility into both paths with the same monthly budget.
Avalanche vs snowball with the same $620/mo
Picture three cards: $4,200 @ 24.99%, $1,900 @ 18.9%, $900 @ 15.5%. Minimums total maybe $170; you steer the remaining $450 somewhere. Avalanche hammers the 24.99% line first. Snowball kills the $900 first for the dopamine hit. Months and interest paid will diverge. Neither is “wrong” if you actually stick to the plan—but one is usually cheaper.
The credit card payoff calculator runs month-by-month interest, pays minimums, then applies the surplus to the target card. Toggle avalanche, snowball, or minimum-only and compare timelines honestly.
FAQ
Why does my bank’s payoff date differ?
Promotional rates, different minimum formulas, and new charges change the path. This tool assumes fixed APRs and no new spending—your discipline is the wild card.
Should I consolidate?
Balance transfer math needs fees and promo end dates. If you consolidate, model the fee as part of the balance you’re fighting.