GDS / TDS Calculator — Canada 2026
Check your Gross Debt Service and Total Debt Service ratios instantly — and get a ranked action plan if your ratios are offside.
A $400/month car payment can reduce your maximum mortgage by $70,000–$90,000. Check your ratios before you apply.
What Are GDS and TDS?
GDS and TDS are the two ratios Canadian lenders use to determine whether you can afford a mortgage. Every mortgage application in Canada is evaluated against these ratios. If either is too high, you don't qualify, regardless of your credit score or down payment.
GDS — Gross Debt Service Ratio (max 39%)
GDS measures your housing costs as a percentage of your gross monthly income. Housing costs include your mortgage payment (calculated at the mortgage stress test Canada 2026 rate, not your actual rate), property tax, heating costs, and 50% of any condo fees.
TDS — Total Debt Service Ratio (max 44%)
TDS takes your housing costs from GDS and adds all your other monthly debt obligations — car loans, student loans, credit card minimums, lines of credit, and any other recurring debt payments. If TDS exceeds 44%, you won't qualify even if your GDS is fine.
How Much Income Do You Need to Buy a House in Canada?
Your GDS and TDS ratios are driven by income. A household earning $120,000 with minimal debt qualifies for roughly $580,000–$620,000 after the stress test — but add $800/month in debt and that drops to ~$500,000. See the full breakdown at every price point in our income needed to buy a house in Canada guide.
How to Improve Your Ratios
If your GDS or TDS is too high, the most impactful strategy is usually paying off existing debt — every dollar of monthly debt eliminated lowers your TDS directly. Adding a co-applicant increases your income denominator, which improves both ratios simultaneously. Increasing your down payment reduces the mortgage you need, lowering your GDS.
Property selection matters more than most buyers realize. Condo fees count at 50% against your GDS, so a $700/month condo fee has the same ratio impact as $350/month of debt. Property tax rates also vary significantly by municipality. Prepare for your application with our mortgage pre-approval checklist Canada 2026.
See your GDS and TDS ratios instantly — with a ranked action plan if you're offside.
Open Full Calculator →This calculator is for educational purposes only and does not constitute financial, mortgage, or legal advice. GDS and TDS limits shown are standard guidelines — some lenders may use different thresholds. Always consult a licensed mortgage professional. ClearKey is not a licensed mortgage brokerage.