How it's calculated
Each month interest is added to every debt, all minimum payments are made, and the money left over (the extra payment plus the payments of debts that are already paid off) goes to a single debt.
Avalanche: the extra goes to the debt with the highest rate. It's mathematically the cheapest in interest. Snowball: the extra goes to the debt with the smallest balance; you finish debts sooner and that keeps you motivated. Both are calculated with your numbers.
Watch out for this
- While you get organized, always pay at least the minimum on every debt.
- Avoid taking on new debt to pay off old debt if the rate is higher.
- If a minimum payment doesn't even cover the interest, the debt grows: we warn you.