Debt terms, in plain English.

The yearly cost of borrowing, including interest and certain fees. The engine accrues monthly at APR ÷ 12. Higher APR debts cost you the most over time — which is why the Avalanche method targets them first.

A payoff strategy that directs every extra dollar to your highest-APR debt first. Mathematically it minimizes total interest and time to debt-free.

A payoff strategy that targets your smallest balance first, clearing whole debts quickly for psychological momentum — often at slightly higher total interest than Avalanche.

Short-term installment financing — Klarna, Affirm, Afterpay, Sezzle, PayPal Credit. Often 0% if paid on schedule, but can carry deferred or retroactive interest if you miss the plan's end date.

The point where a BNPL plan's promotional 0% window ends and interest may apply retroactively to the original purchase amount. Smart Debt Flow flags these within 60 days.

The smallest amount due each month to keep an account in good standing. Paying only minimums on high-APR debt can stretch payoff for years and multiply interest.

The original amount borrowed, separate from interest. Extra payments reduce principal directly, which shrinks future interest.

The projected month your last debt reaches a zero balance, given your debts, payments, and chosen strategy. It updates live as your inputs change.

Revolving debt (credit cards) has a flexible balance and no fixed end date; installment debt (auto, student, BNPL) has set payments over a fixed term.

The share of available revolving credit you're using. Lower utilization is generally better for your credit profile.