Debt Attack Strategy Calculator
If you’re ready to get serious about clearing your debt, this is the tool for you.
We’ve turned our Debt Attack Strategy into a simple Google Sheet that helps you see your debts clearly, work out which one to attack first, and understand how much faster you could become debt free.
Current version - 2026-06-25
This tool helps you turn a foggy pile of debts into a clear plan of attack.
You'll be prompted to make your own copy of the Google Sheet so you edit your own version. We can never see your data, and don't want to! That's for you!
What the Debt Attack Strategy Calculator helps you decide
If your debt currently feels like a foggy mess, this sheet helps you turn it into a clear plan.
What do I owe?
Bring your debts into one place so you can see the balances, interest rates and minimum payments clearly.
What matters most?
Spot the debts that are costing you the most, especially the ones with high interest rates.
What is my next move?
The calculator helps you choose the debt to attack first. Use your gap to build momentum month after month.
How to use the calculator
- 1 Make your own copy of the Google Sheet. Click the button so you have your own editable version.
- 2 Add your debts. Put in the name, balance, interest rate and minimum payment for each one.
- 3 Choose your first target. Focus on the highest interest rate debt while keeping up minimum payments on the others.
- 4 Update it monthly. Watch the balances fall, adjust your plan, and keep going.
New here? Read this first
If you want the full explanation of how the strategy works, start here:
Read the full Debt Attack Strategy guide
That page walks you through the thinking behind the method so you understand not just what to do, but why it works.
Why this works
Debt gets expensive when interest keeps piling on month after month.
A good debt payoff plan helps you focus your energy, reduce wasted interest, and build momentum.
This is not about being perfect. It is about making your next best move. Then the next one. Then the next one.
A quick note before you start
This tool is for education and planning.
It can help you organise your debts and explore your options, but it is not regulated financial advice. If your situation is urgent or complex, please get debt advice.
You can also read our full Rebel Donegans disclaimer here.
Frequently asked questions
What is the Debt Attack Strategy Calculator?
It is a free Google Sheet that helps you list your debts, compare them, and work out the fastest way to pay them off using our Debt Attack Strategy.
Is this an Excel spreadsheet?
No. It is now a Google Sheet.
When you click the button, Google will prompt you to make your own copy and use it in Google Sheets.
Do I need to download anything?
Not unless you want to.
You can make a copy in Google Sheets and use it there.
How do I get my own copy?
Click the button on this page and Google will prompt you to make your own copy of the sheet.
What debts should I include?
Start by including all your debts, especially expensive debts such as credit cards, overdrafts, personal loans and store cards. You can include other debts too if it helps you see the full picture.
Which debt should I attack first?
Focus on the debt with the highest interest rate while still making the minimum payments on the others.
That is the core behind the Debt Attack Strategy.
Should I include my mortgage?
You can include it if you want the full picture, but the main Debt Attack Strategy is usually most powerful for expensive debt such as credit cards and loans.
Read our thoughts on mortgages here:
What about student loans?
Student loans often work differently from normal consumer debt, so they usually need separate thinking. If you are unsure, do not assume they should be attacked in the same way as credit cards.
Read our page about student loans here: Should I pay off my student loan?
What if I can only afford the minimum payments right now?
That is still a useful place to start.
Get clear on the numbers first. Then look for tiny ways to improve the plan over time, such as reducing spending, increasing income, negotiating rates, or making occasional lump sum overpayments.
How often should I update the sheet?
Monthly is a great rhythm.
That keeps the plan alive and helps you see progress.
Is this financial advice?
No. It is an educational planning tool to help you understand your debts and build a strategy. If your situation is urgent or complex, please get debt advice.
Helpful places to start:
You can also read our full Rebel Donegans disclaimer here.
You can do this
Debt can feel heavy. We know.
But heavy is not hopeless.
One clear plan can change everything. Make your copy of the sheet, put your numbers in, and start building your way out.