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How to pay off credit card debt

Credit card interest is usually high, so every extra dollar you pay saves you money. The plan is simple: stop adding to the balance, know exactly what you owe, and pay more than the minimum on one card at a time.

Start this week

Your first 3 steps

  1. 1

    List every card with its balance, interest rate (APR) and minimum payment

    15 min · Done when: One list with all cards and all three numbers

    You can't beat a number you haven't looked at. This list is your whole plan on one page.

  2. 2

    Pick your target: the highest APR card or the smallest balance

    5 min · Done when: One card is marked as the target

    Highest APR first saves the most money. Smallest balance first gives you a quick win. Both work if you stick with it.

  3. 3

    Set up autopay for the minimum on every card

    15 min · Done when: Autopay is on for all cards

    Late fees and penalty rates make debt grow. Autopay protects you while you focus extra money on one card.

Pursivon reminds you each morning and builds the rest of your plan.

Your first 4 weeks

  1. Week 1

    Make the list, pick a target card and set autopay minimums on everything.

  2. Week 2

    Find $25-50 a month to add to the target card: cancel something, sell something or pick up a shift.

  3. Week 3

    Call the card company and ask for a lower rate. It doesn't always work, but it takes 10 minutes.

  4. Week 4

    When the target card is paid off, roll its whole payment into the next card.

Mistakes that stop most people

  • Paying only minimums. It can take years and cost far more in interest.
  • Closing paid-off cards right away. It can lower your score; just stop using them.
  • Taking on new debt to pay old debt without a plan, like a consolidation loan with fees you didn't read.

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Common questions

Avalanche or snowball?

Avalanche (highest interest first) saves the most money. Snowball (smallest balance first) keeps many people motivated. Pick the one you'll actually stick with.

Is a balance transfer card worth it?

It can be, if the transfer fee is small and you can pay the balance before the 0% period ends. Otherwise the rate jumps back up.

Should I stop saving while I pay off debt?

Keep a small emergency fund, even a few hundred dollars, so a surprise bill doesn't go back on the card.

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