What DTI ratio do I need for a mortgage?

Conventional loans typically require back-end DTI below 43%. FHA loans allow up to 50% with compensating factors. Fannie Mae and Freddie Mac may allow up to 45–50% for strong credit scores. Below 36% is considered excellent and qualifies for the best rates.

How do I lower my DTI quickly?

Two options: increase income (ask for a raise, add side income), or pay down debt (focus on any debt you can pay off completely to eliminate the payment). Minimum payments count against DTI whether the balance is $100 or $10,000 — eliminating a debt entirely removes its payment from your DTI calculation.

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Home & MortgageAffordability

Debt-to-Income Ratio Calculator (DTI) — Are You Loan-Ready?

Calculate your DTI ratio instantly and see if you qualify for a mortgage, car loan, or personal loan.

DTI Ratio Details

Gross Monthly Income$7,500

Proposed Mortgage (PITI)$2,200

Car Payment(s)$450

Min. Credit Card Payments$150

Student Loan Payments$200

Other Monthly Debts$0

Results

Live

Back-End DTI

40.0%

Total Monthly Debts$3,000

Front-End DTI (Housing Only)29.3%

Total Monthly Debts$3,000

Back-End DTI40.0%

Front-End DTI (Housing Only)29.3%

How to use

Change one assumption at a time to see what moves the answer most.

Frequently Asked Questions

Everything you need to know.

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Why This Matters

Your DTI ratio determines whether a lender will approve your loan application. Most mortgage lenders require a back-end DTI below 43%. Knowing your DTI before applying tells you exactly where you stand — and how to improve it.

How to Use It

1Enter your gross monthly income
2List all monthly debt payments (mortgage/rent, car, student loans, credit cards)
3See your front-end and back-end DTI ratios
4See your qualification status for mortgages and other loans

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