FAQ
Common questions about the app, your data, and Pro.
Is my debt data private?
Yes. Free users' data never leaves their browser — it's stored only in localStorage on your device. Pro users' data is stored securely in our database and is never sold or shared.
What happens if I clear my browser data?
If you're using the free tier, clearing browser storage (cookies, site data, cache) will erase your saved debts. This is one of the main benefits of Pro — your data is backed up to the cloud and can be restored on any device.
What's the difference between the snowball and avalanche methods?
The snowball pays off your smallest balance first to build momentum. The avalanche pays off your highest-interest debt first to minimize total interest. Both work — the snowball is often better for motivation, the avalanche is mathematically optimal. Use the 'Sort by Strategy' button in the app to compare both side-by-side for your specific debts.
How do I switch between the snowball and avalanche methods?
Tap 'Sort by Strategy' above your debt list. You'll see a side-by-side comparison of both strategies — payoff date, total interest, and monthly breakdown. Tap 'Sort Snowball' or 'Sort Avalanche' to apply your choice. The app recalculates everything instantly and saves your preference.
Why do both strategies show the same result?
There are four reasons this can happen: (1) You only have one debt — sort order is irrelevant. (2) All your debts have the same interest rate — neither strategy has a mathematical advantage. (3) Your lowest-balance debt also has the highest rate — both methods naturally target the same debt first. (4) Your extra monthly payment is large enough that debts are paid off so quickly the payoff order has no meaningful impact on total interest or timeline. You can still choose either strategy as your preference — it affects how debts are ordered in your list.
What is the Windfall Calculator?
The Windfall Calculator lets you see the impact of a one-time lump sum payment — like a tax refund, bonus, or gift — on your payoff timeline. Enter the amount, pick which debt to apply it to (or let the app choose automatically), and see your new projected debt-free date before committing. Tap 'Apply' to actually update your balances.
Can I use this on multiple devices?
Yes, with a Pro subscription. Sign in on any device and pull your data from the cloud to get access to your plans anywhere.
What happens to my data when I cancel Pro?
Your cloud data is retained for 30 days after cancellation. After that it may be permanently deleted. Your local browser data is unaffected.
Who made this and why is it free?
Simple Debt Snowball was built by Josh — a husband, dad of three, and developer from the midwest who found himself in more debt than he was comfortable with. He was frustrated that the tools with real visibility cost a real monthly fee, and the free ones felt like they were built for accountant-types who only care about numbers. So he built his own. The core calculator is free because the people who most need a debt payoff tool shouldn't have to pay $15/month to use one. A Pro subscription covers the cost of cloud sync, storage, and ongoing development — but the calculator itself will always be free. Read the full story on the About page.
Is this financial advice?
No. Simple Debt Snowball is a planning tool. All calculations are estimates based on the information you enter. Please consult a financial professional for personalized advice.
How accurate are the payoff projections?
Projections assume fixed minimum payments and a consistent monthly budget. In reality, minimums can change as balances drop. The estimates are a good approximation but may vary from your actual payoff timeline.
Can I export my data?
Yes — Pro users can export their full payoff schedule as a CSV or PDF from the app menu.
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