Debt Load: A term that describes a consumer’s amount of debt. It is often used to understand if you are carrying a “safe” amount of debt. Creditors look at a debt/income ratio, comparing your income with your debts to analyze whether you have an appropriate amount of debt. The debt/income ratio is figured monthly and reveals either how good or bad your financial situation is. Debt load is the sum total of all the money you owe, including a mortgage, student loans, credit cards, and loans from friends and family.