How the debt simplifier works
Write one debt per line, like "Ana owes Ben 20". The tool adds up each person's net balance (what they are owed minus what they owe), then matches the biggest debtor with the biggest creditor and repeats until everyone is square. Nobody's total changes. Only the number of payments does.
A worked example
The starting example has 8 debts between six friends. After combining them, 5 payments settle everyone. The list never has more than one payment fewer than the number of people.
What it does not do
This is a simple, fast rule. It gives a short list, but it is not proven to be the shortest possible list for every group. It also assumes everyone is happy to pay through the group instead of paying back each person directly.
Related guide: How debt simplification works
Frequently asked questions
Does simplifying change what I owe?
No. Your total is the same. Only who you pay, and how many payments, changes.
What format can I type?
"Ana owes Ben 20", "Ana pays Ben 20" or "Ana -> Ben 20", one per line.
Is my data stored?
No. It stays in your browser.