Debt-to-Income Ratio Calculator
Your debt-to-income ratio, the number lenders check before a mortgage or loan.
Good to know. Lenders look at income before tax, so the ratio always looks a little kinder than your bank account feels.
Not financial advice. Uses only the numbers and rates you enter — no live data.
How it works
In plain words
Add up your monthly debt payments, including rent or your mortgage, and divide by your gross monthly income, before tax. The housing ratio is the same with only the housing payment.
The formula
DTI = (housing + other debt payments) ÷ gross monthly income × 100 housing ratio = housing ÷ gross monthly income × 100
Worked example
With 6,000 a month before tax, a 1,500 mortgage and 600 of other debt payments: 2,100 ÷ 6,000 = 35%. The housing ratio is 1,500 ÷ 6,000 = 25%.
Sources
- Consumer Financial Protection Bureau, What is a debt-to-income ratio? How the ratio is worked out.
- Fannie Mae Selling Guide, B3-6-02 Debt-to-Income Ratios The 36%, 45% and 50% limits for conventional mortgages.
Sources checked September 30, 2026. 4 automated tests check its answers on every change.
About the debt-to-income ratio calculator
Your debt-to-income ratio, or DTI, is the share of your income before tax that goes to debt payments each month. Mortgage lenders, car lenders and landlords use it to judge whether you can take on a new payment, alongside your credit score.
Count the payments you are committed to: rent or your mortgage (with property tax and insurance), and the minimum payments on car loans, student loans, credit cards and personal loans. Everyday bills like food, utilities and phone plans don’t count. Divide by your gross monthly income, before tax and deductions.
The 28/36 rule is the classic guideline: housing no more than 28% of income, and all debts no more than 36%. Many lenders go further. 43% was long the limit for a qualified mortgage in the US, and automated underwriting for conventional loans can approve up to 50% with good credit and savings. FHA loans are similar.
To lower your ratio, pay down the debt with the highest monthly payment relative to its balance, avoid new car or card debt before applying, or add a co-borrower’s income. A lower DTI also means more room in your budget, whatever the lender says.
Questions people ask
What is a good debt-to-income ratio?
36% or less is considered good, with no more than 28% going to housing. Many mortgage lenders accept up to 43%, and some up to 50%.
Is DTI based on gross or net income?
Gross income: your pay before tax and deductions. That is how lenders calculate it.
Does rent count in debt-to-income?
Yes, when you apply for other credit. When you apply for a mortgage, the new mortgage payment replaces your rent.
What debts are included in DTI?
Housing, car loans, student loans, credit card minimums, personal loans, and child support or alimony. Utilities, insurance and groceries are not.