Tip Calculator

How much to tip

Tipping in the United States is customary at sit-down restaurants and for many personal services. The typical range at a full-service restaurant is 18 to 20 percent of the pre-tax bill, with 15 percent on the low end and 25 percent or more reserved for genuinely excellent service. This calculator gives you one-tap presets for the most common percentages and a custom field for anything in between.

Standard tipping etiquette

• Sit-down restaurant: 18 to 20 percent, pre-tax.
• Buffet or counter service: 10 percent, or a couple of dollars.
• Takeout: 10 percent is a kind default, though not required.
• Food delivery: 15 to 20 percent, with a $3 to $5 minimum.
• Bartender: $1 to $2 per drink, or 15 to 20 percent of the tab.
• Coffee shop: rounding up or dropping a dollar in the jar is typical.
• Rideshare and taxi: 10 to 20 percent.
• Hair, nail, and spa services: 15 to 20 percent.

Pre-tax vs post-tax

The traditional convention is to tip on the pre-tax subtotal because the tip reflects service, not the local sales tax rate. Tipping on the post-tax total is also common and only adds a small amount in most jurisdictions, so either approach is acceptable.

Splitting the bill

Turn on the split toggle and enter the number of people at the table. The calculator divides the bill, tip, and total evenly and shows each person's share. If the group prefers to pay for exactly what each person ordered, split by itemized totals instead and apply the same tip percentage to each subtotal.

Watch for included service charges

Some restaurants add an automatic gratuity for large parties, and many establishments in tourist areas or overseas include a service charge on the bill. Check the receipt before tipping again. If a service charge is already applied, an additional tip is optional and usually reserved for standout service.