Debt-to-Income Ratio Calculator

Calculate your DTI to understand your mortgage eligibility

Monthly Income (Gross)
Average monthly amount
Rental income, alimony, etc.
Housing Costs (Monthly)
Include principal, interest, taxes, insurance
Other Monthly Debts
Your Back-End DTI Ratio
38%
Total Debt-to-Income
0% 28% 36% 43% 50%+

DTI Breakdown

Gross Monthly Income $7,000
Housing Costs $1,800
Other Debts $850
Total Monthly Debts $2,650

Both DTI Ratios

Front-End (Housing)
26%
Back-End (Total)
38%

Loan Program Qualification

Conventional (Strict) Likely
FHA Loan Likely
VA Loan Likely
Conventional (Flexible) Likely
Tips to Lower Your DTI
  • Pay down credit card balances
  • Avoid taking on new debt before applying
  • Consider a larger down payment
  • Look for ways to increase your income

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Frequently Asked Questions

What is a good debt-to-income ratio?

For mortgage approval, lenders typically prefer a front-end DTI (housing costs) of 28% or less and a back-end DTI (total debts) of 36% or less. Some loan programs allow higher ratios: FHA up to 43%, VA up to 41%, and some conventional loans up to 50% with strong compensating factors like excellent credit or significant cash reserves.

How do I calculate my DTI ratio?

DTI is calculated by dividing your total monthly debt payments by your gross monthly income, then multiplying by 100. For example, if you earn $6,000/month and have $2,000 in monthly debt payments, your DTI is 33% ($2,000 / $6,000 x 100).

What debts are included in DTI?

DTI includes: mortgage/rent payments, car loans, student loans, credit card minimum payments, personal loans, child support, and alimony. It does not include utilities, insurance premiums (unless escrowed), groceries, or other living expenses.

What's the difference between front-end and back-end DTI?

Front-end DTI (also called housing ratio) includes only housing costs (mortgage principal, interest, taxes, insurance, and HOA). Back-end DTI includes housing costs plus all other monthly debt obligations. Lenders look at both ratios when evaluating loan applications.

Can I get a mortgage with a high DTI?

Yes, but it depends on the loan type and your overall financial profile. FHA loans allow up to 43% DTI (sometimes higher with compensating factors). Some lenders offer conventional loans up to 50% DTI for borrowers with excellent credit, strong reserves, or other positive factors.