Gross Monthly Income
Income before taxes
Housing Expenses (Front-End)
Monthly Debt Payments (Back-End)
0%
100%
0%
Calculating...
  • Gross Monthly Income $0
  • Housing Expenses $0
  • Total Monthly Debt $0
  • Front-End Ratio (Housing) 0%
  • Back-End Ratio (Total) 0%

What is Debt-to-Income Ratio?

Your debt-to-income (DTI) ratio is the percentage of your gross monthly income that goes to paying your monthly debt payments. It is a key indicator that lenders use to measure your ability to manage payments and repay what you borrow. A low DTI ratio demonstrates a good balance between debt and income.

Generally, 43% is the highest DTI ratio a borrower can have and still get qualified for a mortgage. Ideally, lenders prefer a debt-to-income ratio lower than 36%, with no more than 28% of that debt going towards servicing a mortgage or rent payment.

Front-End vs. Back-End Ratios

Lenders look at two types of DTI ratios:

  • Front-End Ratio (Housing Ratio): This shows what percentage of your income would go toward housing costs.
  • Back-End Ratio: This shows what percentage of your income covers all monthly debt obligations.

How to Lower Your DTI

Improving your DTI ratio can help you qualify for better loan terms:

  • Pay Down Debt: Focus on paying off small balances or high-interest credit cards.
  • Increase Income: Taking on a side job or negotiating a raise.
  • Refinance: Extending the term of a loan can lower monthly payments.