Debt-to-Income (DTI) Calculator
Add up your monthly debts to see your DTI ratio and whether it falls in a healthy lending range.
Debt-to-income ratio
Healthy
Most lenders look for a DTI of 43% or below. 36% or under is ideal and unlocks the best rates.
Ready to turn these numbers into a real loan?
Get my personalized quoteAbout this calculator
Your debt-to-income ratio is one of the most important numbers lenders use to decide whether to approve your mortgage. This DTI calculator adds up your monthly debt obligations — housing, car payments, credit cards, student loans and other debts — and divides them by your gross monthly income to show your ratio as a percentage.
Lenders generally look for a DTI of 43% or below for a qualified mortgage, and a ratio of 36% or under is considered ideal and helps you secure the best rates. Our calculator labels your result Healthy, Manageable or High so you can see at a glance where you stand and how much room you have for a new mortgage payment.
If your DTI is higher than you would like, you can improve it by paying down revolving balances, avoiding new debt before applying, or increasing your income. Use the calculator to model different scenarios, then get a personalized quote to see what you qualify for.
Frequently asked questions
- What is a good debt-to-income ratio?
- A DTI of 36% or below is ideal, and most lenders accept up to 43% for a qualified mortgage. Lower ratios unlock better rates and a smoother approval.
- What debts count toward my DTI?
- Recurring monthly obligations such as housing, auto loans, minimum credit card payments, student loans and other installment debt. Utilities and groceries are not included.
- How can I lower my DTI quickly?
- Pay down credit cards and small loans, avoid taking on new debt before applying, and consider increasing income. Even paying off one small loan can move you into a better band.
Related calculators
Mortgage Payment Calculator
Estimate your full monthly payment — principal, interest, taxes, insurance, HOA and PMI.
Home Affordability Calculator
Find out how much house you can afford based on your income, debts and down payment.
Refinance Calculator
See your new payment, monthly savings and how long it takes to break even on closing costs.
Amortization Calculator
View your full payoff schedule — how each year splits between principal, interest and balance.