A snap lock balance shoe of a balance system may be incorporated in pivotable double hung windows. In one embodiment, the snap lock balance shoe includes a pair of retractable tabs that partially extend through openings within an inverted window balance channel. The shoe includes a locking member that extends toward a window jamb when a cam of the shoe is rotated. This extension locks the balance system in place in the window jamb. During a method of assembly of the balance system, the snap lock balance shoe may be engaged with the channel and then pivoted to secure the snap lock balance shoe to the channel.