One debt
When money is tight, a debt can feel permanent. In Care.com's 2026 survey, 82% of sandwich-generation caregivers said they felt financially strained. A clear end date doesn't solve that, but it changes how the debt feels: from a fog to a project with a finish line.
Use one debt at a time, such as a credit card or a car loan. The calculator works month by month with your interest rate, so the numbers are close to what a lender's statement would show, though fees and rate changes aren't included.
If you have more than one debt
Run each one through the calculator separately. Two common ways to choose which to focus extra money on:
- Highest interest rate first. Usually costs least overall.
- Smallest balance first. Gives a quicker win, which some people find keeps them going.
Either way, keep paying at least the minimum on everything else. If you're struggling to make minimum payments, free, independent debt advice is available in both the US and the UK. Look for non-profit services rather than companies that charge fees.
Before the holidays
For many households the next big addition to a credit card is December. If you'd like to plan the season without adding to the balance, the holiday budget and gift cap calculator and the planner below can help.
Questions people ask
Why does a small extra payment make such a difference?
Every extra amount goes straight to the balance, so next month's interest is charged on a smaller amount. The effect builds over time, especially at high rates.
Does this include fees or promotional rates?
No. If you have a 0% period that ends, run the calculator with the rate that applies afterwards.
Sources
Keep going
Where should this month's pay go?
Split take-home pay into needs, wants and savings, and compare with real spending.
What does cutting back for care really cost?
Estimate the pay and pension contributions you'd give up by cutting back for care.
An emergency fund for the sandwich years
Size an emergency fund that includes help you might give a parent at short notice.
