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Compare required monthly debt payments with gross income. This is one measure, not a lending decision.
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Use the right numerator
Add required monthly payments, not account balances. Different lending programs have specific rules for housing, student loans, support payments and other obligations. This general calculation does not apply those underwriting rules.
Use gross income carefully
Gross income is before tax and payroll deductions. Self-employed, seasonal and irregular income may be measured differently by a lender. A percentage based on an unsupported income assumption is not an approval signal.
DTI is not an affordability budget
The ratio omits many essential living expenses. Compare take-home income with food, utilities, transportation, care and a buffer using the monthly budget tool as a separate step.
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Sources & further reading
Sources checked October 19, 2026. Rules and programs can change. This article uses AI-assisted research and has not received attorney or other professional signoff. Read our editorial standards.