What is the standard tip percentage in the US?
18–20% is the current standard for good restaurant service in the US. 15% is the minimum for acceptable service. 25% or more is appropriate for exceptional service or when you're a regular. For bars, $1–2 per drink or 20% of the tab is customary.
Do I tip before or after tax?
Etiquette traditionally says tip on the pre-tax subtotal, but tipping on the post-tax total is also widely accepted. On a $50 meal with $4 tax, the difference at 20% tip is only $0.80. Use whichever is easier — the server won't know either way.
Is gratuity the same as a tip?
In practice, yes. Gratuity and tip are used interchangeably. The distinction matters when a restaurant adds an 'auto-gratuity' or 'service charge' to the bill — this is a mandatory fee, not a voluntary tip. Check your receipt before adding more.
How much should I tip for food delivery?
15–20% of the food subtotal, or a minimum of $3–5 for smaller orders. Delivery fees paid to the platform are not tips — the driver typically receives only the tip you enter at checkout.
What does Tip Calculator do?
A tip is a percentage of the bill for service. This calculator applies your chosen rate to the bill, shows the total with tip, and splits it evenly by the number of people.
How do I calculate a 20% tip quickly without a calculator?
Move the decimal one place left to get 10% of the bill, then double that for 20%. Example: $47 bill → 10% = $4.70 → 20% = $9.40. For 15%, take 10% and add half: $4.70 + $2.35 = $7.05.
Do I tip on the pre-tax or post-tax amount?
Etiquette traditionally says tip on the pre-tax subtotal, but tipping on the post-tax total is also widely accepted. On a $50 meal with $4 tax, the difference at 20% tip is only $0.80. Use whichever is easier — the server won't know either way.
How do I split the bill when people ordered different amounts?
For unequal splits, each person should pay their own subtotal plus a proportional share of the tip. This is called an itemized split. For simplicity, many groups split the full total equally, which slightly benefits lower-spending members.
Is tipping expected outside the US?
Tipping customs vary significantly. In the US and Canada, 15–20% is expected. In the UK, 10–12% is typical. In most of Europe, 5–10% or rounding up is customary. In Japan, Australia, and New Zealand, tipping is uncommon or even considered rude. Always research local customs before traveling.
How much should I tip for a hair cut or other personal services?
15–20% is standard for salons, barbers, massage therapists, and personal trainers. 20% is considered generous and appreciated. For spa services, tip the therapist directly (not the front desk) if they are the same person. Skip the tip if the service provider is the salon owner — though this is not universal.