Debt-to-Income (DTI) Calculator

How to read your DTI ratio

Enter your gross monthly income, your monthly housing payment and your other recurring debt payments. The calculator shows both your housing ratio and total debt ratio and rates how UK lenders are likely to view it.

Formula

• Housing ratio = housing payment ÷ gross monthly income × 100%.
• Total debt ratio = (housing + all other debts) ÷ gross monthly income × 100%.

Guideline ratings (total debt)

• 36% or less: excellent — comfortable for most lenders.
• 37%–43%: good — generally manageable.
• 44%–50%: caution — options narrow.
• Above 50%: high — most lenders will be reluctant.

UK lenders rely on full affordability assessments, not just DTI. This is an estimate and not a mortgage offer or promise of approval.

Frequently Asked Questions

What is a debt-to-income ratio?

DTI is your total monthly debt payments divided by your gross (pre-tax) monthly income, shown as a percentage. UK lenders use it alongside detailed affordability checks to judge how much of your income is already committed to debt.

What is the difference between the housing and total ratios?

The housing ratio counts only your mortgage or rent (plus related costs) against income. The total ratio counts all monthly debt — housing plus loans, car finance, credit cards and other commitments.

What DTI do UK lenders like to see?

There is no single legal limit, but a total debt ratio of 36% or less is comfortable, and many lenders become cautious above 43%–50%. Lenders also stress-test your finances against higher interest rates.

How can I lower my DTI?

Pay down or clear existing debts, avoid taking on new credit before applying for a mortgage, and increase your qualifying income. Clearing high-payment debts such as car finance often helps the most.