Tip Calculator FAQ
Answers to the most commonly asked questions about calculating tips, tipping etiquette, and splitting bills.
What is a standard tip percentage?
In the United States and Canada, the standard tip for full-service restaurants is 15% to 20% of the pre-tax bill amount. Many people tip 15% for average service, 18% for good service, and 20% or more for excellent service. For large parties (typically 6 or more people), many restaurants automatically add an 18% gratuity.
Should I tip on the pre-tax amount or the total with tax?
The standard convention is to tip on the pre-tax subtotal, not the total that includes tax. Tax is collected by the government, not kept by the restaurant or staff. Tipping on the pre-tax amount also keeps the tip proportional to the food and service cost. However, many people tip on the total simply because it's more convenient, and this is generally fine — the difference is small for most bills.
How do I calculate a 20% tip quickly?
The easiest way to calculate a 20% tip is to find 10% and double it. To find 10%, simply move the decimal point one place to the left. For example, on a $45.00 bill, 10% is $4.50, so 20% is $9.00. For 15%, find 10% first, then add half of that amount. On $45.00: 10% is $4.50, half is $2.25, so 15% = $6.75.
How do I split a bill with tip evenly among a group?
To split a bill evenly: (1) take the total bill amount, (2) add the tip (multiply the bill by the tip percentage), (3) divide by the number of people. For example, a $120 bill with 18% tip split among 4 people: $120 + $21.60 (tip) = $141.60, divided by 4 = $35.40 per person. You can use our bill split calculator above to do this instantly.
Do I tip on takeout or delivery orders?
For takeout, a tip of 10% is considered polite since staff still prepared and packaged your order, though it's less customary than for dine-in service. For delivery, a tip of 10-15% or $3-5 minimum is standard, as delivery drivers rely on tips and often use their own vehicles. Always check if a delivery fee is already included — delivery fees rarely go to the driver.
How much should I tip a bartender?
At a bar, the standard is $1-2 per drink for simple pours (beer, wine, basic mixed drinks) and $2-3 or 15-20% of the tab for craft cocktails or complex orders. If you open a tab, tipping 15-20% of the total at the end is appropriate. Cash tips per round generally lead to better service at busy bars.
What about tipping for other services?
Hairdressers/Barbers: 15-20% of the service cost.
Ride-share (Uber/Lyft): 15-20%, or at least $1-2 for short rides.
Hotel housekeeping: $2-5 per night, left daily with a note.
Valet parking: $2-5 when your car is returned.
Food delivery: 10-15% or a $3-5 minimum, whichever is higher.
Movers: $20-40 per mover for a full-day job, less for shorter moves.
Is tipping different in other countries?
Yes, tipping norms vary significantly by country. In the United States, tipping is essentially expected for most service workers. In Japan and South Korea, tipping can be considered rude or unnecessary. In much of Europe, a modest 5-10% tip or rounding up the bill is common but not required, as service charges are often included. For a detailed guide, see our Tipping Culture by Country article.