◆ CALCULATOR
Debt-to-Income Ratio
The number lenders judge you by. See your DTI and where you land against their thresholds.
Try an example
Back-End DTI
37% · Caution
Front-End DTI
26.7%
Back-End DTI
36.7%
Room before 36%
0.0%
| Segment | Value | Share |
|---|---|---|
| Housing | $1,600 | 26.7% |
| Other debt | $600 | 10.0% |
| Remaining income | $3,800 | 63.3% |
How to use this calculator
- Enter your gross monthly incomePre-tax, the figure lenders actually use.
- Add your monthly debt paymentsHousing, loan payments, and credit card minimums.
- Read your DTI and ratingAim for 36% or below; 43% is the usual ceiling to qualify for a mortgage.
When you apply for a loan, the lender's first question is rarely your income alone: it is your debt-to-income ratio, the share of your gross monthly pay already committed to debt. It is one of the biggest factors in whether you are approved and at what rate.
◆ Frequently Asked Questions
What is a debt-to-income ratio?
It is the share of your gross monthly income that goes to debt payments. Lenders use it to judge how much new debt you can handle, and it is one of the biggest factors in loan approvals.
What is a good DTI ratio?
Aim for 36% or below. Many lenders allow up to 43% to qualify for a mortgage, and some go higher, but a lower ratio generally means easier approval and better rates.
Which debts and income should I include?
Include required monthly debt payments: housing, car and student loans, and credit card minimums. Use gross income, your pay before taxes, which is the figure lenders actually use.
Do utilities and groceries count?
No. The ratio counts debt payments, not everyday living costs like utilities, groceries, or insurance. Only required loan payments and obligations on your credit report belong in it.
Keep reading
◆ DEBT & CREDIT
Debt Avalanche vs. Debt Snowball: Which Strategy Actually Gets You Out
One method saves the most interest. The other saves the most people. Here's how to pick the one that actually works for you.
◆ DEBT & CREDIT
Building Credit From Scratch: How to Go From Zero to Good in 12 Months
No credit history is harder than bad credit. Here are the three fastest paths from zero to a score lenders will work with.
◆ DEBT & CREDIT
Good Debt vs. Bad Debt
Not all debt is equal. Learn which debts build wealth and which destroy it.