RatellowBeta
  • Ask AI
  • Calculators
  • Guides
  • Scenarios
  • Blog

Ratellow © 2026

The intelligent hub for Canadian mortgage research.

Resources

  • Ask AI
  • Guides
  • Scenarios
  • FAQs
  • Blog
  • Glossary
  • Bookmarks

Analysis

  • All Calculators
  • Payment Calculator
  • Payment Comparison
  • Renewal Calculator
  • Renewal Comparison
  • Affordability Calculator
  • Stress Test Calculator
  • Land Transfer Tax
  • Penalty Calculator

Rates

  • Mortgages Overview
  • All Mortgage Rates
  • 5-Year Fixed Rates
  • 3-Year Fixed Rates
  • 5-Year Variable Rates
  • Ottawa Rates
  • Toronto Rates
  • Rate Methodology

Company

  • About Us
  • Research Team
  • Editorial standards
  • Support
TermsPrivacy

For informational purposes only. Not financial, legal, or professional advice. Consult a licensed mortgage professional before making decisions. See full disclaimer

FAQ Library
Qualification•By Ratellow Research Team•Verified 2026-09-01•How we research

How are GDS and TDS ratios calculated for mortgage qualification?

GDS (Gross Debt Service) covers housing costs divided by gross income — lenders cap it at 39%. TDS (Total Debt Service) adds all other debts — capped at 44%. Your mortgage size is limited to whichever ratio is hit first.

Need a Deeper Breakdown?

Read the full research guide this FAQ was derived from for more context and strategy.

Primary sources

Primary sources cited by the Ratellow Research Team. Editorial standards · Correction policy

Read the deeper guide · Regulatory

GDS & TDS Ratios Explained: 2026 Canadian Mortgage Qualification Guide

Related Questions

What are the exact credit score requirements by lender tier?

A-lenders (Big 5 banks, credit unions): 680+ Beacon score for prime rates, 720+ for best available rates.

What is the exact timeline after bankruptcy or consumer proposal?

Discharged bankruptcy: A-lenders typically require 2+ years post-discharge with 2 re-established credit accounts active for 12+ months.

Which credit rebuilding actions have the highest impact?

Ranked by impact: (1) Payment history — 35% of score, never miss any payment, set up auto-pay.

How long do negative items stay on a Canadian credit report?

Varies by province: Late payments: 6 years from date of last activity.

Analyze Your Scenario

Calculator

Affordability Calculator

$485Kmax
Income
$95K
Debts
$420
Down pmt
20%
Open Calculator

Today’s Lowest Mortgage Rates

5-Year Fixed
Lender 1
4.14%
3-Year Fixed
Lender 1
3.94%
5-Year Variable
Lender 1
3.49%
Prime Rate
Bank of Canada
4.45%

GDS and TDS are the two core qualifying ratios every Canadian lender uses to determine how much mortgage you can carry.

GDS — Gross Debt Service (39% threshold)

GDS = (Annual mortgage P+I + Property tax + Heat + 50% of condo fees) ÷ Gross annual income

  • Mortgage P+I: Calculated at the stress test rate (higher of contract+2% or 5.25%)
  • Property tax: Actual annual tax or lender estimate (~1% of value)
  • Heat: Lenders use a flat estimate (~$150–200/month)
  • 50% condo fees: If applicable

Lenders want GDS ≤ 39%. Borrowers at ≤ 32% GDS often unlock Prime-rate tiers.

TDS — Total Debt Service (44% threshold)

TDS = GDS costs + Annual payments on all other debts

Adds to GDS:

  • Car loan / lease payments
  • Credit card minimums (3% of balance/month used)
  • Student loans
  • Spousal/child support
  • Other mortgage payments

Lenders want TDS ≤ 44%.

Why This Matters

Your maximum mortgage is limited by whichever ratio you hit first. A borrower with heavy car loan debt may be TDS-limited even with a high income. Paying off a car loan or credit card before applying can significantly increase your maximum purchase price.

Quick Example

ItemMonthlyAnnual
Mortgage P+I (stress test)$3,200$38,400
Property tax$400$4,800
Heat$150$1,800

Your Next Steps

  1. Calculate your affordability → Affordability Calculator
  2. Read the full guide → GDS/TDS Qualifying Ratios
  3. Speak with a mortgage advisor to model your specific scenario