As it happens, to qualify for given mortgage loan programs you must meet certain front and back ratios. The ratios for loan programs vary, so if you do not qualify for one program you may qualify for others. For instance, there are different ratios for conventional loans (28/36), FHA financing (29/41) and VA loans (effectively 41/41). Adjustable rate mortgages often use 33/38 ratios while other loans have even more liberal standards, some with a back ratio above 50.

Now go back to the new payment standards for credit cards. If your required monthly payment goes from $200 to $280, that''s good for reducing credit card debt -- but your monthly required payment has increased. For instances, monthly expenses may go from $2,880 to $2,960. No a big deal in terms of cash or in the cost of a household with a monthly income of $8,000, but now the "back" ratio is 37 percent.

Whoops. That higher credit card payment means some borrowers will no longer qualify for certain mortgages. They monthly costs are above the guidelines.

What to do?

First, start with the realization that paying non-deductible, high-cost credit card charges is not a magical path to great wealth. To get the best possible mortgage, and to simply save more money, reduce credit card use.

* Look at your credit situation and get rid of credit cards you don''t use and don''t need. Keep one for emergencies.

* Speak with underwriters. Ask if it is possible to get an "exception" to the guidelines.

* Start saving. People save enormous sums of money with such basic steps as putting aside all singles found in their wallet at the end of the day or all coins in their pockets. Eat-in more often, bring lunch to work, keep safe cars longer and cut back on fashion and frills.

* If you have credit cards, always make full and timely payments and keep balances at zero.

* Instead of credit cards, use debit cards -- with a debit card you''re simply using money already in your checking account. Using cash on hand instead of credit means you''re likely to buy less.

* Get over-draft protection (a line of credit) for your checking account or link savings to checking accounts. Both can help prevent over-drafts and excess fees. So the next time you pull out that credit card think about your real goal -- a new sweater or a new fireplace, a fancy dinner or a better kitchen, higher monthly payments or less. In no time it will be easy to keep the plastic out of sight and out of mind.

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