DTI Calculator: Debt-to-Income Ratio for Mortgage 2026
Calculate your debt-to-income ratio instantly. See if you qualify for FHA (43%), VA (41%), or conventional (36-45%) mortgages.
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💵 Monthly Gross Income
Before taxes (gross income)
📋 Monthly Debt Payments
Your DTI Ratios
Front-End DTI
25.0%
Housing only
Back-End DTI
39.2%
All debts
Your DTI Rating
Loan Qualification
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Get Pre-Approved Now →What is DTI (Debt-to-Income Ratio)?
Your debt-to-income ratio (DTI) is one of the most important factors lenders use to determine if you can afford a mortgage. It compares your total monthly debt payments to your gross monthly income.
DTI Formula
DTI = (Monthly Debts ÷ Gross Income) × 100
Example: $2,000 debts ÷ $6,000 income = 33% DTI
DTI Requirements by Loan Type (2026)
| Loan Type | Max Front-End DTI | Max Back-End DTI | Notes |
|---|---|---|---|
| Conventional | 28% | 36-45% | Up to 50% with strong credit |
| FHA | 31% | 43% | Up to 50% with compensating factors |
| VA | N/A | 41% | No front-end limit; residual income matters |
| USDA | 29% | 41% | Strict limits for rural loans |
What Debts Are Included in DTI?
✅ Included in DTI
- • Mortgage/rent payment
- • Car loans
- • Student loans
- • Credit card minimum payments
- • Personal loans
- • Child support/alimony
- • Other loan payments
❌ NOT Included in DTI
- • Utilities (electric, gas, water)
- • Phone/internet bills
- • Groceries
- • Insurance premiums (unless escrowed)
- • Subscriptions
- • Entertainment
- • Gas/transportation
How to Lower Your DTI
- Pay off small debts: Eliminate credit cards or small loans
- Increase income: Side job, raise, or add co-borrower
- Refinance existing debt: Lower payments with longer terms
- Avoid new debt: Don't open new credit before applying
- Pay down credit cards: Reduce minimum payments
Frequently Asked Questions
What is a good DTI ratio for a mortgage?
For conventional mortgages, lenders prefer a DTI of 36% or less, but may accept up to 43-45%. FHA loans allow up to 43% DTI (50% with compensating factors). VA loans typically require 41% or less.
What is front-end vs back-end DTI?
Front-end DTI (housing ratio) includes only housing costs. Most lenders want this under 28%. Back-end DTI includes all debts plus housing—this is the main ratio lenders use.
Can I get a mortgage with 50% DTI?
It's difficult but possible. FHA allows up to 50% with compensating factors like high credit score, large down payment, or significant cash reserves. Some non-QM lenders also accept higher DTI.