DTI Calculator
Your debt-to-income ratios, scored against the guidelines lenders actually use
Before taxes
Rent, or PITI + HOA
Minimums, not balances
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Quick summary
DTI is monthly debt payments divided by gross monthly income. Lenders track two versions: front-end (housing only — the classic cap is 28%) and back-end (all debts — classically 36%, though FHA allows 43% and conventional loans stretch to 50% with strong files). Only credit obligations count: rent/mortgage, car loans, student loans, and card minimums — not utilities or groceries. The calculator also shows the largest housing payment that keeps you under 36%.
Reviewed by Simple Calculators TeamLast reviewed
For planning only — not financial or tax advice. Results are estimates based on your inputs and the stated assumptions. Confirm important decisions with a qualified professional.
How to use this calculator
- Enter the inputs requested by the calculator.
- Choose the units or options that match your situation and review the assumptions.
- Run or update the calculation to see the result.
- Review the result, breakdown, and formulas shown on the page.
- Check the inputs, units, dates, and limitations before saving or sharing the result.
Frequently asked questions
What is a good debt-to-income ratio?
Under 36% back-end is the traditional comfort zone and passes nearly every lender screen; under 28% is excellent. 36–43% narrows options and pricing; above 43% most conventional paths close, though FHA and strong compensating factors can extend further.
What debts count toward DTI?
Recurring credit obligations from your credit report: housing payment, auto loans and leases, student loans, minimum credit card payments, personal loans, and court-ordered payments like child support. Excluded: utilities, phone, insurance, groceries, subscriptions, and taxes withheld from pay.
Do lenders use gross or net income?
Gross — before taxes and deductions. That surprises people because a 36% gross DTI can feel like half your take-home pay. It's also why the ratios are conservative guides for your own budgeting, where net income is what actually pays the bills.
How can I lower my DTI fast?
Two levers: pay off small monthly obligations entirely (eliminating a $300 car payment cuts DTI more than paying down a large balance whose minimum barely moves), or document more income. Before a mortgage application, paying off a car loan or a card with a high minimum is often the highest-impact move.
Key terms
- Front-End DTI
- Housing payment ÷ gross monthly income — the housing ratio.
- Back-End DTI
- All monthly debt payments ÷ gross monthly income — the number lenders weight most.
- Compensating Factors
- Strengths (reserves, credit score, low LTV) that let lenders approve above-guideline DTIs.
- Qualified Mortgage
- The regulatory framework behind the common 43% back-end ceiling.
Methodology, sources & limitations
This page shows the formula, assumptions, and limitations used for this estimate. Rates, thresholds, and other time-sensitive inputs can change, so verify them against the relevant official source before relying on a result.
For our review approach and the primary sources we consult, see the methodology and source policy. If you spot an outdated figure or formula, please contact us with a correction.