Question 1

What is the standard tip percentage at a restaurant?

Accepted Answer

In the United States, 15–20% is the standard tip range at sit-down restaurants. 15% is considered acceptable for average service, 18–20% for good service, and 20–25%+ for exceptional service. For takeout, 10–15% is common. For buffet-style dining, 10% or a flat amount is typical.

Question 2

How do I calculate a 20% tip quickly?

Accepted Answer

To calculate a 20% tip mentally: move the decimal point one place to the left (giving you 10% of the bill), then double that number. For example, on a $45 bill: 10% = $4.50, doubled = $9.00 tip. Our tip calculator does this instantly for any percentage and any number of diners.

Question 3

Should I tip on the pre-tax or post-tax amount?

Accepted Answer

Traditionally, tips are calculated on the pre-tax amount since tax is not a service the waiter provided. However, many people find it easier to tip on the total bill (post-tax) because the difference is small. On a $50 meal with 8% tax, tipping 20% on the pre-tax amount is $10.00 vs. $10.80 on the post-tax total — a $0.80 difference.

Question 4

Do I need to tip at coffee shops and fast food restaurants?

Accepted Answer

Tipping at counter-service locations (coffee shops, fast casual) is discretionary. Many people tip $0.50–$2.00 for simple orders at coffee shops. Fast food restaurants generally do not expect tips. Tip prompts on card readers have expanded significantly — always feel free to choose the amount that reflects the service you received.

Question 5

How do I split the bill evenly among friends?

Accepted Answer

Our tip calculator handles even splits automatically. Enter the total bill, set your tip percentage, and enter the number of people. The 'Each Pays' amount shows exactly what every person owes including their share of the tip. If you want to round up to avoid awkward cents, toggle the 'Round up to nearest dollar' option.

Question 6

What is gratuity and how is it different from a tip?

Accepted Answer

Gratuity and tip are the same thing — both refer to extra money given to a service worker above the billed amount. Some restaurants automatically add an 18–20% 'auto-gratuity' to large parties (usually 6+ people). Always check your receipt for an auto-gratuity before adding an additional tip to avoid double-tipping.

Service Type	Standard Tip	Notes
Sit-down restaurant	18–20%	Standard; 25% for exceptional service
Bar / Bartender	$1–2/drink or 15–20%	Tip per drink for simple orders
Coffee shop	$0.50–$2 or 10–15%	Discretionary at counter service
Food delivery	15–20% or $3–5 min	Consider distance and weather
Taxi / Rideshare	15–20%	Or round up to nearest dollar
Hotel housekeeping	$2–5/night	Left daily, not just at checkout
Hair salon	15–20%	Based on stylist's fee

Tip Calculator

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What Is a Tip Calculator?

Tipping Etiquette by Service Type

Frequently Asked Questions