💵 Tip Calculator

Use our free Tip Calculator to quickly figure out how much to tip and how to split the bill. Enter the total, choose a tip percentage, and see instant results.

Common: 15%, 18%, 20%, 25%

How to Calculate a Tip

Calculating a tip is straightforward. Multiply your bill total by the tip percentage expressed as a decimal. For example, on a $50 bill with an 18% tip: $50 × 0.18 = $9.00 tip, making the total $59.00. If you split between two people, each pays $29.50.

The Tip Formula

Tip = Bill Amount × (Tip Percentage / 100)

Total = Bill + Tip. Per person = Total / Number of People.

Standard Tipping Percentages in the US

Tipping is a deeply ingrained part of American culture. Service workers in the United States often rely on tips as a significant portion of their income, since the federal tipped minimum wage is just $2.13 per hour. Here are the standard ranges by service type:

  • Sit-down restaurants: 15% for adequate service, 18% for good service, 20%+ for excellent service. Many people now tip 20% as a baseline.
  • Buffets: 10% is standard since less table service is involved.
  • Bartenders: $1–$2 per drink, or 15–20% of the tab.
  • Food delivery: 15–20% of the order total, with a minimum of $3–$5.
  • Coffee shops: $1 per drink or 15–20% if you order specialty beverages.
  • Taxi and rideshare: 15–20% of the fare.
  • Hair salons and spas: 15–20% of the service cost.
  • Hotel housekeeping: $2–$5 per night.
  • Valet parking: $2–$5 when your car is returned.
  • Movers: $20–$40 per mover for a full-day job, or 10–15% of the total moving cost.

Pre-Tax vs. Post-Tax Tipping

Should you tip on the pre-tax or post-tax amount? Technically, tipping on the pre-tax subtotal is correct since the tax goes to the government, not the server. However, many diners tip on the post-tax total for convenience. On a $100 meal with 8% sales tax, the difference between tipping 20% pre-tax ($20) and post-tax ($21.60) is small. Choose whichever you prefer — your server will appreciate either approach.

When Gratuity Is Automatically Included

Many restaurants add an automatic gratuity (usually 18%–20%) for large parties, typically groups of six or more. This should be clearly noted on the menu or by the server. Check your bill before adding an extra tip on top. Automatic gratuity is also common at some resort restaurants, catered events, and room service at hotels.

Tips for Splitting the Bill

When dining with a group, there are several ways to handle the bill:

  • Even split: Divide the total (including tip) equally. This is the simplest approach.
  • Itemized split: Each person pays for what they ordered plus their share of the tip. This is fairer when orders vary widely in price.
  • One person covers it: In some groups, people take turns paying for the entire table.

Our calculator makes the even-split method easy: just enter the number of people and see each person's share instantly.

Tipping Etiquette: Common Questions

Should you tip on a to-go order? While not required, tipping 10%–15% on takeout has become more common, especially since 2020 when restaurants relied heavily on carryout business.

What if the service was poor? A 10% tip signals dissatisfaction without stiffing someone who may depend on tips. If the problem was with the kitchen (slow food, wrong order) rather than the server, consider tipping normally since the server may not be at fault.

Is it OK to tip in cash? Many servers prefer cash tips since they receive them immediately and may have more control over reporting. However, adding the tip to your credit card is perfectly acceptable and ensures a paper trail.

Quick Tip Calculation Shortcuts

For mental math when you do not have a calculator handy:

  • 10% tip: Move the decimal point one place to the left. On a $64.00 bill, 10% = $6.40.
  • 15% tip: Calculate 10%, then add half of that. $6.40 + $3.20 = $9.60.
  • 20% tip: Calculate 10% and double it. $6.40 × 2 = $12.80.
  • 25% tip: Calculate 10%, then multiply by 2.5. $6.40 × 2.5 = $16.00.

Or simply use our Tip Calculator above for an instant, precise result.

Frequently Asked Questions

How much should I tip at a restaurant in the US?
The standard tip at a sit-down restaurant in the United States is 15% to 20% of the pre-tax bill. For excellent service, 20% or more is common. Many Americans now consider 20% the baseline for good service.
Is it rude not to tip in America?
In the US, not leaving a tip at a sit-down restaurant is considered very rude. Servers earn a base wage of just $2.13 per hour federally and rely on tips to make a living. Leaving no tip signals extreme dissatisfaction.
Should I tip on the total before or after tax?
Traditionally, tips are calculated on the pre-tax subtotal, since sales tax goes to the government. However, many people tip on the post-tax total for simplicity. The difference is usually small.
How do I split the tip when dining with a group?
The easiest method is to add the tip to the total bill, then divide by the number of people. Our calculator does this automatically. For example, a $100 bill with 20% tip = $120 total, split 4 ways = $30 per person.
What does automatic gratuity mean?
Automatic gratuity is a mandatory tip (usually 18%–20%) added to your bill by the restaurant, typically for parties of 6 or more. Check your bill to avoid double-tipping. You can add extra on top if you received exceptional service.
How much should I tip for delivery?
For food delivery, tip 15%–20% of the order total, with a minimum of $3–$5. For grocery delivery, 10%–15% or $5 minimum is standard. In bad weather or for heavy orders, consider tipping more generously.