Tip Calculator
Instantly calculate the perfect tip and split the bill.
Tipping Guide by Service
| Service | Suggested Tip |
|---|---|
| Restaurant (sit-down) | 18–20% |
| Buffet | 10% |
| Food Delivery | 15–20% |
| Taxi / Rideshare | 15–20% |
| Hotel Housekeeping | $2–5/night |
| Hair Salon | 20% |
| Spa / Massage | 20% |
| Valet Parking | $2–5 |
| Bartender | $1–2/drink or 15–20% |
| Tour Guide | 10–20% |
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How to Calculate a Tip
Figuring out the right tip shouldn't be stressful. Whether you're at a restaurant, getting food delivered, or taking a rideshare, knowing the standard etiquette — and a quick formula — makes tipping painless.
The Simple Tip Formula
To calculate a tip manually, multiply your bill by the decimal version of the tip percentage:
For example, on a $50 bill at 20%: $50 × 0.20 = $10 tip, making the total $60. A quick mental shortcut for 20% is to move the decimal one place left ($50 → $5.00), then double it ($10).
What Is a Good Tip Percentage in the US?
Tipping norms have shifted upward in recent years. Current US standards (2024):
- 15% — the old baseline, now considered below average for table service
- 18% — standard for good restaurant service
- 20% — the widely accepted "good tip" for sit-down dining
- 25%+ — exceptional service, special occasions, or small bills
Tipping Etiquette by Situation
Context matters. At a sit-down restaurant, 18–20% on the pre-tax amount is standard. For food delivery, tip 15–20% or at least $5, whichever is higher — drivers often rely on tips to cover their own fuel. In a taxi or rideshare, 15–20% is customary; round up for short rides. For coffee counters and takeout, tipping is appreciated but not expected — a dollar or two is generous.
How to Split a Bill Fairly
When dining with a group, the fairest approach depends on how you ate. If everyone had roughly equal meals, split the total (including tip) evenly by the number of people. If someone had a pricier dish or extra drinks, itemize their share and add a proportional tip. Our calculator handles even splits automatically — just enter the number of people and you'll see each person's share at a glance.
Frequently Asked Questions
For sit-down restaurant service, the standard tip in the United States is 18–20% of the pre-tax bill. A tip below 15% is generally viewed as dissatisfaction, while 20%+ signals excellent service.
Etiquette experts recommend tipping on the pre-tax subtotal, since sales tax doesn't reflect the server's work. However, tipping on the post-tax total is also common and is a modest way to tip slightly more.
Tip 15–20% of the order total, with a minimum of $3–5 for small orders. Add more in bad weather, for long distances, or large orders. Remember: delivery fees charged by the app usually don't go to the driver.
In the US, yes — especially for table service, where servers are often paid a sub-minimum "tipped wage" and depend on tips for most of their income. Not tipping for adequate service is considered disrespectful. Poor service is better addressed by speaking with a manager.
For uneven splits, calculate each person's subtotal separately, then apply the same tip percentage to each subtotal. Many restaurants will print separate checks if you ask before ordering. Apps like Splitwise also help track who owes what across multiple meals.
"Tip creep" is the gradual expansion of tipping to services that traditionally didn't require tips — like self-serve kiosks or quick takeout. You're not obligated to tip for counter service or self-checkout. Follow the suggested percentages only where service is actually rendered to you.