Debt Snowball: Three Small Debts Under $5,000
Use the snowball method to pay off three small debts ($500, $1,200, and $3,000) and see how quickly you can become debt-free.
How to use this tool
- Enter debt 1 balance, debt 1 apr, debt 1 monthly payment, debt 2 balance, debt 2 apr, debt 2 monthly payment, debt 3 balance, debt 3 apr and debt 3 monthly payment in the fields above.
- Results update instantly as you type — or click Calculate.
- Read your months to debt freedom and the full breakdown beneath it.
Three smaller debts are ideal for the snowball method — paying off the smallest first builds momentum quickly.
Frequently asked questions
- Snowball vs. avalanche — which saves more money?
- The avalanche method (highest APR first) saves more interest. The snowball (smallest balance first) provides faster psychological wins. Pick whichever keeps you motivated.
- What happens when Debt 1 is paid off?
- Its minimum payment is added to Debt 2's payment, accelerating payoff. This is the 'snowball' effect.