Start with a complete debt list
Write down every credit card balance, APR, minimum payment and promotional-rate end date. A plan based on incomplete figures can direct extra money to the wrong account or miss an expensive rate change.
Understand what APR does to the balance
Interest is normally applied to the outstanding balance. When a payment is only slightly above the interest and fees charged, the principal falls slowly. Paying more than the contractual minimum can shorten the term substantially, but you must still keep essential bills and priority debts covered.
Choose a repayment method
Debt avalanche
Pay the minimum on every account and direct extra money to the highest APR first. Mathematically, this usually minimises interest.
Debt snowball
Pay the minimum on every account and clear the smallest balance first. It may cost more interest, but the early wins can help some people stay consistent.
Build the payment into a budget
Use net income and realistic household costs. Automate the planned payment shortly after payday, but leave a buffer for variable bills and emergencies. Avoid putting new spending on a card you are trying to clear unless it is genuinely unavoidable.
When a calculator is not enough
If you are missing payments, using one card to pay another, or cannot cover priority bills, seek free debt advice. Contacting the lender early can also open options that are not visible in a standard calculator.