How much should I tip at a restaurant?

In the United States, 15-20% is standard for sit-down restaurant service. Tip 15% for adequate service, 18-20% for good service, and 20%+ for exceptional service. For poor service, 10% is acceptable but consider speaking to management. At buffets, 10-15% is appropriate since servers still clear plates and refill drinks. Fine dining typically warrants 20-25%. Always calculate tip on the pre-tax subtotal, not the total after tax.

How do I calculate tip quickly in my head?

Use these mental math tricks: For 10%, move the decimal one place left ($85.00 → $8.50). For 20%, calculate 10% and double it ($8.50 × 2 = $17.00). For 15%, calculate 10% plus half of that ($8.50 + $4.25 = $12.75). For 25%, divide the bill by 4 ($85 ÷ 4 = $21.25). Then round up or down to a convenient amount.

Traditionally and by etiquette standards, you should tip on the pre-tax subtotal, not the total after tax. The reasoning is that you're tipping for service, not for the government's share. However, many people tip on the full amount for simplicity—the difference is usually small. For a $100 meal with 8% tax, tipping 20% on pre-tax is $20, while on post-tax it's $21.60. Either approach is acceptable.

How do I split a bill with tip evenly?

Add your desired tip percentage to the total bill, then divide by the number of people. For a $120 bill with 20% tip split 4 ways: $120 + $24 tip = $144 total ÷ 4 = $36 per person. Our calculator handles bill splitting automatically. For uneven splitting based on what each person ordered, calculate individual subtotals first, then add tip percentage to each.

Do I tip on takeout orders?

Tipping on takeout is optional but increasingly appreciated, typically 10-15%. During and after the pandemic, tipping on takeout became more expected as restaurants struggled. For complex orders, curbside pickup, or when staff provides extra service (special requests, modifications), a tip shows appreciation. Delivery orders should always include a tip of 15-20% or $5 minimum, as drivers use their own vehicles and time.

Is it rude to tip in cash instead of on a card?

Cash tips are generally preferred by service workers for several reasons: they receive it immediately, it may not be taxed (though legally should be reported), and some employers take a cut of credit card tips for processing fees. Cash also ensures 100% goes to your server. However, card tips are perfectly acceptable and often more convenient. The most important thing is tipping appropriately—the method is secondary.

What if the service was bad?

For genuinely poor service, 10% is the minimum acceptable tip in most situations. Before reducing the tip, consider: Was it the server's fault or the kitchen's? Was the restaurant understaffed? For truly terrible service, speak to a manager—this helps the establishment improve. Never leave zero tip unless there was serious misconduct. Remember that servers often earn below minimum wage and depend on tips. If you regularly experience bad service, the issue may be elsewhere.

How much should I tip for food delivery?

For food delivery services like Uber Eats, DoorDash, Grubhub, or pizza delivery, tip 15-20% with a $5 minimum. Delivery drivers use their own vehicles, pay for gas, and often wait for orders. Increase the tip for bad weather, long distances, large orders, or apartment deliveries requiring stairs. Tip in the app before delivery if required, but you can adjust afterward for exceptional service.

How much should I tip hotel housekeeping?

Tip hotel housekeeping $2-5 per night, leaving it daily rather than at checkout since different staff may clean your room each day. Leave the tip on the pillow or desk with a note marked "Housekeeping" so they know it is for them. Increase for suites, extra-messy rooms, or special requests. This is one of the most under-tipped services—housekeepers work hard and often go unrecognized.

Should I tip in countries where it is not customary?

Research local customs before traveling. In Japan and China, tipping can be considered rude or confusing—exceptional service is the cultural norm. In most of Europe, service is often included in the price; small tips (rounding up or 5-10%) are appreciated but not expected. In Australia and New Zealand, tipping is uncommon due to fair wages. When in doubt, observe locals or ask hotel concierge about local customs.

How much should I tip movers?

Tip movers $20-50 per person for a standard local move, or 15-20% of the total bill for larger moves. Consider the complexity: stairs, heavy furniture, long distances, extreme weather, and professionalism. For an all-day move, providing lunch and drinks is also appreciated. If one mover stood out, you can tip them extra. Cash is preferred and should be given directly to each mover at the end of the job.

How much should I tip at a hair salon or barbershop?

Tip your hairstylist or barber 15-20% of the total service cost. If multiple people work on your hair (stylist, colorist, shampoo person), tip each one separately. For the shampoo person, $3-5 is standard. At high-end salons, 20% is more common. If the owner cuts your hair, tipping is optional but increasingly common. Cash tips are often preferred as they go directly to the stylist.

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Tip Calculator

This bidirectional tip calculator solves for ANY variable: calculate tip amount from bill, find what tip percentage you gave, or reverse-calculate the original bill from total. Standard rates: 15-20%. Split bills between multiple people. Solve for tip amount, tip %, or original bill.

The ultimate tipping guide and calculator. Calculate tip amount, tip percentage, or reverse-calculate the original bill. Comprehensive tipping guide for restaurants, bars, delivery, hotels, salons, and more. International tipping etiquette, mental math tricks, and bill splitting.

What do you want to calculate?

Enter bill amount and tip percentage to calculate the tip

Bill Amount

Tip Percentage

Split Between

person

Quick Mental Math Tricks

10% Tip

Move the decimal point one place left.

$85.00 → $8.50

20% Tip

Calculate 10%, then double it.

$85.00 → $8.50 × 2 = $17.00

15% Tip

Calculate 10%, add half of it.

$85.00 → $8.50 + $4.25 = $12.75

More Shortcuts:

• 25%: Calculate 10%, add 10%, add half of 10% (or divide bill by 4)
• 18%: Calculate 20%, subtract 2% (20% minus a small bit)
• Round up: After calculating, round to the nearest dollar for easy payment

US Tipping Guide by Service

International Tipping Guide

Tipping customs vary dramatically around the world. What is expected in the US may be unnecessary or even offensive elsewhere. Always research local customs before traveling.

Country/Region	Tip	Notes
United States	15-20%	Expected for most services. Workers rely on tips as part of wages.
Canada	15-20%	Similar to US. Expected for restaurants and services.
United Kingdom	10-15%	Optional. Check if service charge is included.
Europe (Western)	5-10% or round up	Service often included. Small tip for good service appreciated.
France	Round up or 5-10%	Service compris (included) is standard. Small extra appreciated.
Germany	Round up or 5-10%	Say total amount when paying (includes tip).
Italy	Round up	Coperto (cover charge) is common. Extra tip optional.
Spain	Round up	Not expected but appreciated for good service.
Japan	Do NOT tip	Considered rude. Exceptional service is the standard.
China	Do NOT tip	Not customary. Can be seen as offensive in traditional settings.
South Korea	Do NOT tip	Not expected. Service charge often included at hotels.
Australia	Not expected	Fair wages mean no tip culture. 10% for exceptional service.
New Zealand	Not expected	Similar to Australia. Appreciated but not required.
Mexico	10-15%	Expected at restaurants. Check for propina incluida.
Brazil	10%	Often included as taxa de serviço. Check bill.
Middle East	10-15%	Varies by country. Often included in tourist areas.

The History of Tipping

Tipping in America has a complex and often controversial history. The practice originated in medieval Europe, where lords would give extra coins to servants for exceptional work. The word "tip" may have come from the 17th century English slang for "to give" or from an acronym "To Insure Promptitude" (though this etymology is disputed by linguists).

Americans encountered tipping during travel to Europe in the mid-1800s and brought the custom back home as a way to seem sophisticated. Initially, many Americans opposed tipping as un-democratic—they saw it as creating a servant class. In 1915 and 1916, six states actually passed anti-tipping laws, which were later repealed as unenforceable.

After the Civil War, tipping became entrenched in American service industries, particularly in restaurants and railroads that employed formerly enslaved Black workers. Employers used tipping as a way to avoid paying fair wages, passing labor costs to customers. This troubling history continues to influence debates about tipping today.

Why Americans Tip More Than Other Countries

The United States stands out globally for its tipping culture. Unlike most countries where service workers earn living wages, the US allows a lower "tipped minimum wage" for workers expected to receive tips. As of 2024, the federal tipped minimum wage is just $2.13 per hour— unchanged since 1991—though employers must make up the difference if tips don't bring workers to regular minimum wage.

This system means American service workers depend on tips for their livelihood, not just as a bonus for good service. When you tip in the US, you're not just rewarding good service—you're providing essential income. This explains why American tipping rates (15-20%+) are much higher than in countries where service workers earn full wages.

The Tipped Minimum Wage Explained

Under federal law, employers can pay tipped employees as little as $2.13 per hour, as long as tips bring total compensation to at least the federal minimum wage ($7.25/hour). This is called the "tip credit" system. However, enforcement is difficult, and wage theft in tipped industries remains common.

States have different rules: California, Washington, Oregon, and several others require full minimum wage before tips. Other states have tipped wages between $2.13 and their regular minimum. When traveling within the US, tipping expectations remain similar regardless of local wage laws—the custom is deeply ingrained.

Recent movements have pushed for eliminating the tipped minimum wage, with some restaurants experimenting with "no-tipping" policies and higher menu prices that include service. However, these experiments have had mixed results, and traditional tipping remains dominant in American dining culture.

When Gratuity is Already Included

Sometimes tip or service charge is automatically added to your bill. Always check before adding more:

•Large parties (6+): Many restaurants add 18-20% automatic gratuity for groups
•Hotel room service: Often includes service charge—check the bill
•Catering/Private events: Service charge typically included in contract
•Cruise ships: Daily gratuity often charged automatically to your account
•European restaurants: Look for "service compris" or "servizio incluso"
•Some upscale US restaurants: May include service charge instead of tipping

Tip: Look for "gratuity," "service charge," or "service fee" on your bill. If included, additional tipping is optional but appreciated for exceptional service.

How to Use

Enter your value in the input field
Click the Calculate/Convert button
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Frequently Asked Questions

How much should I tip at a restaurant?: In the United States, 15-20% is standard for sit-down restaurant service. Tip 15% for adequate service, 18-20% for good service, and 20%+ for exceptional service. For poor service, 10% is acceptable but consider speaking to management. At buffets, 10-15% is appropriate since servers still clear plates and refill drinks. Fine dining typically warrants 20-25%. Always calculate tip on the pre-tax subtotal, not the total after tax.
How do I calculate tip quickly in my head?: Use these mental math tricks: For 10%, move the decimal one place left ($85.00 → $8.50). For 20%, calculate 10% and double it ($8.50 × 2 = $17.00). For 15%, calculate 10% plus half of that ($8.50 + $4.25 = $12.75). For 25%, divide the bill by 4 ($85 ÷ 4 = $21.25). Then round up or down to a convenient amount.
Should I tip on tax?: Traditionally and by etiquette standards, you should tip on the pre-tax subtotal, not the total after tax. The reasoning is that you're tipping for service, not for the government's share. However, many people tip on the full amount for simplicity—the difference is usually small. For a $100 meal with 8% tax, tipping 20% on pre-tax is $20, while on post-tax it's $21.60. Either approach is acceptable.
How do I split a bill with tip evenly?: Add your desired tip percentage to the total bill, then divide by the number of people. For a $120 bill with 20% tip split 4 ways: $120 + $24 tip = $144 total ÷ 4 = $36 per person. Our calculator handles bill splitting automatically. For uneven splitting based on what each person ordered, calculate individual subtotals first, then add tip percentage to each.
Do I tip on takeout orders?: Tipping on takeout is optional but increasingly appreciated, typically 10-15%. During and after the pandemic, tipping on takeout became more expected as restaurants struggled. For complex orders, curbside pickup, or when staff provides extra service (special requests, modifications), a tip shows appreciation. Delivery orders should always include a tip of 15-20% or $5 minimum, as drivers use their own vehicles and time.
Is it rude to tip in cash instead of on a card?: Cash tips are generally preferred by service workers for several reasons: they receive it immediately, it may not be taxed (though legally should be reported), and some employers take a cut of credit card tips for processing fees. Cash also ensures 100% goes to your server. However, card tips are perfectly acceptable and often more convenient. The most important thing is tipping appropriately—the method is secondary.
What if the service was bad?: For genuinely poor service, 10% is the minimum acceptable tip in most situations. Before reducing the tip, consider: Was it the server's fault or the kitchen's? Was the restaurant understaffed? For truly terrible service, speak to a manager—this helps the establishment improve. Never leave zero tip unless there was serious misconduct. Remember that servers often earn below minimum wage and depend on tips. If you regularly experience bad service, the issue may be elsewhere.
How much should I tip for food delivery?: For food delivery services like Uber Eats, DoorDash, Grubhub, or pizza delivery, tip 15-20% with a $5 minimum. Delivery drivers use their own vehicles, pay for gas, and often wait for orders. Increase the tip for bad weather, long distances, large orders, or apartment deliveries requiring stairs. Tip in the app before delivery if required, but you can adjust afterward for exceptional service.
How much should I tip hotel housekeeping?: Tip hotel housekeeping $2-5 per night, leaving it daily rather than at checkout since different staff may clean your room each day. Leave the tip on the pillow or desk with a note marked "Housekeeping" so they know it is for them. Increase for suites, extra-messy rooms, or special requests. This is one of the most under-tipped services—housekeepers work hard and often go unrecognized.
Should I tip in countries where it is not customary?: Research local customs before traveling. In Japan and China, tipping can be considered rude or confusing—exceptional service is the cultural norm. In most of Europe, service is often included in the price; small tips (rounding up or 5-10%) are appreciated but not expected. In Australia and New Zealand, tipping is uncommon due to fair wages. When in doubt, observe locals or ask hotel concierge about local customs.
How much should I tip movers?: Tip movers $20-50 per person for a standard local move, or 15-20% of the total bill for larger moves. Consider the complexity: stairs, heavy furniture, long distances, extreme weather, and professionalism. For an all-day move, providing lunch and drinks is also appreciated. If one mover stood out, you can tip them extra. Cash is preferred and should be given directly to each mover at the end of the job.
How much should I tip at a hair salon or barbershop?: Tip your hairstylist or barber 15-20% of the total service cost. If multiple people work on your hair (stylist, colorist, shampoo person), tip each one separately. For the shampoo person, $3-5 is standard. At high-end salons, 20% is more common. If the owner cuts your hair, tipping is optional but increasingly common. Cash tips are often preferred as they go directly to the stylist.

Standard Tip Guidelines (US)

Service Type	Standard Tip	Notes
Restaurant (sit-down)	15-20%	20%+ for excellent service
Buffet	10%	For drink refills and plate clearing
Takeout	0-10%	Optional, 10% if order is complex
Delivery	15-20%	Minimum $3-5 for small orders
Bartender	$1-2 per drink	Or 15-20% of tab
Hair Stylist	15-20%	Based on service total
Taxi/Rideshare	15-20%	10% minimum