Debt-to-Income (DTI) Calculator
Enter your monthly income and your recurring debts. We compute your front-end and back-end DTI and tell you how lenders will view it.
These are common conventional-mortgage guidelines. FHA, VA and some portfolio loans use different limits, and a strong credit score or cash reserves can offset a higher DTI.
Frequently asked questions
What is a good debt-to-income ratio?
Lenders generally want a back-end DTI (all debts divided by income) below 36%, and a front-end ratio (just housing) below 28%. The maximum most mortgage programs allow is 43%. A lower DTI means more room in your budget and usually a better rate.
What is the difference between front-end and back-end DTI?
Front-end DTI compares only your housing payment (mortgage or rent, plus taxes and insurance) to your income. Back-end DTI includes all monthly debt — housing, car loans, credit cards, student loans and any other minimum payments.
How can I lower my DTI?
Pay down revolving debt (credit cards help most because they are minimum payments), increase your income, or postpone new loans before applying for a mortgage. Paying off a car loan drops your back-end ratio immediately.
Does DTI use gross or net income?
Gross — your income before taxes and deductions. Lenders use gross monthly income because it is consistent and verifiable across pay stubs and tax returns.