Debt-to-Income Ratio Calculator
The number lenders actually look at.
Front-end DTI (housing only):
Back-end DTI (all debt):
Lender verdict:
How to use this calculator
Enter your monthly gross income, housing payment, and other monthly debt payments, then press Calculate. Front-end and back-end DTI ratios appear with a lender verdict.
What the result means
DTI is the percentage of income that goes to debt. Lenders typically want back-end DTI at 36% or less — above 43% usually gets declined.
What the debt-to-income ratio means
DTI is your monthly debt payments divided by your gross monthly income. Lenders use it to judge whether you can afford a new loan: housing costs are the "front-end" ratio, and housing plus all other debts is the "back-end" ratio lenders actually cap.
Worked example
With $6,000 gross monthly income, a $1,500 mortgage and $700 in car and card payments, your total monthly debt is $2,200 - a 36.7% DTI. That is right at the conventional limit; above ~43-45% most lenders will not approve a new mortgage.
What lenders want to see
- Front-end (housing only): 28% or less is the classic guideline.
- Back-end (all debts): 36% is comfortable, 43% is the typical ceiling.
Frequently asked questions
What's a good DTI ratio?
Below 36% is strong. Between 36-43% is workable but tighter. Above 43% most lenders decline.
How can I improve my DTI?
Pay down debt, increase income, or lower your target home price.
Can I lower my DTI fast?
Pay down revolving card balances first - they affect both the numerator and your credit utilization. Raising income is the other lever, but it takes longer.