NBR debt-to-income ratio: how it's calculated in 2026

Debt-to-income is the ratio between your total monthly obligations (existing loan payments + the new one you're requesting) and net monthly income. The NBR caps it at 40% for consumer loans and 45% for mortgages under Regulation 17/2012.

The formula

Debt-to-income = (sum of all monthly payments) ÷ (net monthly income). Add active loan instalments, card exposure (5-10% of the limit), plus the new loan's payment. Above 40%, the bank declines.

Example: net income 4,500 lei, active loans 600 lei, a card with 5,000 lei limit (bank counts 350 lei exposure), new loan 800 lei → ratio = (600+350+800)/4,500 = 39%. Below the cap, approved.

How to lower it

Three ways: (1) pay off a small existing loan to free space; (2) ask for a card limit reduction or close it; (3) extend the new loan's term (lower payment, though higher total cost).

Compute your ratio for free with the Kreditano calculator before applying — you avoid a rejection that stays in your history.

Frequently asked questions

Can I exceed 40% if I have very high income?

NBR regulation allows individual exceptions for high incomes, but most banks keep the 40% cap regardless of income. Negotiation is hard.

Does a credit card count?

Yes. The bank counts 5-10% of the card limit as monthly exposure, even if you don't use the card. Lowering the limit or closing the card helps the ratio.

How is net income calculated?

The bank takes the monthly net income from the income statement, possibly adjusted by a stability factor (typically 0.9-1.0). Variable income (bonuses, commissions) is averaged over 6-12 months.