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Pay Off Debt vs Invest Calculator

Paying down debt is a guaranteed, tax-free return equal to its interest rate; investing is a higher but uncertain return. Enter your numbers to see which puts you further ahead — and by how much.

Inputs

$
%
%/yr
yrs
Verdict
Pay down the debt — its guaranteed return beats the market
Value of paying debt
$29,682
guaranteed, at your debt rate
Value of investing
$21,478
expected, not guaranteed

The numbers

Edge to the winner$8,204
US$9.99 · download & own it forever
Prices in

How it's calculated

Our methodology & 2026 data sources →

Frequently asked questions

What's the simple rule?
If your debt rate is higher than your expected return, pay the debt — it's a guaranteed win. High-interest credit cards almost always beat investing.
Does risk matter?
Yes — the debt return is certain, the market isn't. When they're close, paying debt is the safer, surer choice.

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