How Much Should You Tip?

Tipping is a common practice in many countries to show appreciation for good service. While it is often customary, knowing how much to tip can sometimes be confusing. This calculator simplifies the process by quickly calculating the gratuity and the final bill total. It also helps you split the bill evenly when dining with others.

How to Use This Calculator

This tool is designed for speed and ease of use:

• Bill Amount: Enter the pre-tip total from your receipt.
• Tip Percentage: Select a standard tip percentage or click "Custom" to enter your own. 10 to 15 percent is often considered standard, while 20 percent or more is common for excellent service.
• Split Between: Enter the number of people who are sharing the bill. If you are paying the entire bill yourself, leave this at 1.

The calculator updates the results in real time as you enter the information.

General Tipping Guidelines

Tipping customs can vary by country and service type. In the United States, tipping is expected in many situations, especially in the service industry where workers may rely on tips to supplement their income. Here are some general guidelines:

• Restaurant Servers: 15% to 20% of the pre-tax bill.
• Bartenders: $1 to $2 per drink or 15% to 20% of the bar tab.
• Food Delivery: 10% to 15%, with a minimum of $2 to $5.
• Hairstylists and Barbers: 15% to 20%.
• Taxi or Rideshare Drivers: 10% to 15%.

Calculating the Tip on the Pre-Tax Amount

It is standard practice to calculate the tip based on the subtotal of your bill before sales tax is added. Some credit card machines may suggest tip amounts based on the total bill (including tax), which results in you tipping on the tax as well. While the difference is often small, calculating the tip on the pre-tax amount is the traditional and most common method.