Ways to Increase the Money You Can Request
If your ratio is high or the bank has limited your amount, it's not the end. There are concrete actions to recover margin before applying for a new credit.
1. Reduce High Installment Debts
Every dollar you stop paying in monthly installments improves your ratio immediately. Prioritize:
- Debts with the highest installment (not just the highest rate).
- Credit cards with high minimum payments.
- Loans you can pay off or refinance to a lower installment.
2. Avoid New Debts While the Ratio Is Tight
Adding another installment when you're already near 35-40% worsens the indicator and can close doors. If it's not urgent, wait to lower your ratio. Before implementing these strategies, analyze your current debt-to-income ratio to have a clear starting point.
3. Increase Verifiable Income
A higher net income improves the ratio even if debts remain. Document overtime hours, stable secondary income or a salary increase. Financial institutions value what is verifiable.
4. Refinance Wisely
A refinancing that lowers the monthly payment frees up capacity. Be careful about extending the term excessively: you may pay much more interest. Compare the total cost, not just the new installment.
5. Organize Your Budget
Before applying for more credit, ensure your fixed and variable expenses leave a real cushion. The Bryxo personal finance tool helps you see the complete picture.
Improving capacity is not just “lowering numbers”: it's regaining control. A healthier ratio gives you better conditions and less stress.
Frequently Asked Questions
How can I improve my debt-to-income ratio?
By reducing high installment debts, increasing verifiable income and avoiding unnecessary new debts.
How long does it take to improve the ratio?
Paying off or lowering an installment improves the ratio immediately. Other changes can take months.
Does refinancing help?
Yes, if it lowers the installment. Review the total cost in interest.
Should I close credit cards?
Not always. The key is to lower balances and installments. Consult the impact on your history.
Should I pay off debts first or apply for the loan?
If the ratio is already high, prioritize paying off debts.
Related Guides
You can check your result with the debt-to-income ratio calculator
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