Pay off your smallest debt first — completely ignore interest rates. When it's gone, roll that payment into the next smallest. The momentum you build is the whole point.
Ignore interest rates. Order every balance from the smallest amount owed to the largest.
Keep all other debts current while you direct all available extra cash at debt #1.
Throw every spare dollar at your smallest debt until it is completely gone.
When debt #1 is paid off, add its full payment to what you were already paying on debt #2 — your "snowball" grows with each victory.
SnowballPay visual example
After a payoff, the freed payment rolls forward automatically.
DAVE RAMSEY ENDORSED
The Snowball is the method popularized by financial author Dave Ramsey and used by millions to escape debt.
Target your highest-interest debt first and eliminate it — regardless of the balance. Then cascade those savings down the list. Mathematically, this is the fastest way to destroy debt cost.
Sort every balance from highest APR to lowest, regardless of the balance size.
Keep all other debts current while you concentrate firepower on the highest-rate debt.
Direct all extra money at the most expensive debt — the one costing you the most every single month.
Once the top-rate debt is gone, roll its freed-up payment onto the next highest rate. Your savings compound.
SnowballPay visual example
Highest APR debt is targeted first to cut future interest cost.
FINANCIALLY OPTIMAL
Independent studies consistently show the Avalanche minimizes total interest paid — often saving thousands versus other approaches.
The "right" method is the one you will actually stick with. Both reach the same destination.
Pick the method that matches your motivation style first. You can switch at any time as your confidence and cash flow change.
Create your free account, add your debts, and pick Snowball or Avalanche. SnowballPay handles the order, timeline, and payoff math automatically.
Free forever plan available. No credit card required.