The Debt Snowball: Pay Smallest Balance First

The Problem

You've tried paying off debt before but lost motivation when progress felt invisible.

The Hack

List debts by balance (smallest to largest). Pay minimums on all. Throw extra at the smallest. When it's gone, roll that payment to the next smallest. Quick wins build momentum.

Why It Works

The snowball method creates early victories that release dopamine and build confidence. Paying off a $300 debt in 2 months feels better than chipping at a $5,000 debt for years.

Pro Tips

• Dave Ramsey's recommended method for a reason — it works psychologically
• You'll pay slightly more interest than avalanche, but you'll actually finish
• Cross debts off the list = powerful motivation
• Most people who start avalanche quit. Most who start snowball finish.