Finding the method that’s right for you

Dealing with credit card debt can be overwhelming, especially when you owe money on multiple cards. It’s essential to have a strategic plan to regain control of your finances and pay off those balances.

One common dilemma is deciding which credit card to prioritize first. Should you tackle the card with the highest interest rate or focus on the one with the lowest balance? Let’s explore both approaches to help you make an informed decision.

The Snowball Method: Lowest Balance First

One popular approach to paying off multiple credit cards is the snowball method. This method suggests prioritizing the card with the lowest balance. By focusing on the smallest debt first, you can experience a psychological boost when you successfully eliminate it. Here’s how it works:

1. List all your credit card debts, including the balances and interest rates.
2. Make the minimum payments on all cards except the one with the lowest balance.
3. Allocate any extra money you have toward paying off the smallest debt as quickly as possible.
4. Once the smallest debt is paid off, redirect the money you were putting toward it to the next lowest balance card.
5. Repeat the process until you’ve paid off all your credit card debts.

The snowball method can be effective in providing motivation and a sense of accomplishment as you gradually eliminate your debts. However, it’s worth noting that this approach may not save you the most money in the long run if your higher balance cards have significantly higher interest rates.

The Avalanche Method: Highest Interest Rate First

The avalanche method takes a more financially savvy approach by prioritizing the card with the highest interest rate. You’ll go through the same steps as you would for the snowball method, except the card with the highest interest rate will get the extra payments. Once that card is paid off, you’ll move on to the card with the next highest interest rate, continuing the cycle as needed.

The avalanche method helps you save more money in the long term by reducing the overall interest you pay. Mathematically, it’s a more logical approach. However, it may take longer to see significant progress, which can be demotivating for some.

Choosing the Right Strategy

When deciding which strategy to adopt, consider your personal circumstances and financial goals. If you’re motivated by quick wins and the emotional boost of crossing off debts, the snowball method may be best for you. On the other hand, if you’re determined to minimize the interest you pay and can stay motivated even when progress seems slower, the avalanche method is worth considering.

It’s important to note that regardless of the method you choose, consistently making the minimum payments on all your credit cards is crucial to maintaining a good credit score and avoiding additional fees or penalties.

Whichever way you decide, Consumers makes credit card payments easy. And with the rewards you get from our cash back credit card, you can pay off your cards even faster.

Consumers provides banking services for well over 132,000 members. If you have banking questions, call us at 800-991-2221. We make it easy to bank how you want, when you want.

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