Tip & Bill Split Calculator
Quickly calculate your gratuity and effortlessly split the check between friends down to the exact penny.
Totals
In the U.S., a tip of 15% to 20% of the before-tax meal price is typically expected at sit-down restaurants.
Navigating Tipping Culture
A tip or gratuity is a sum of money paid to service workers. Understanding how and when to tip prevents awkward situations.
Wage Dependency
In regions like the U.S., the federal minimum wage for tipped employees is significantly lower than standard minimum wage. Tipping is heavily factored into a service worker's ability to make a living.
Global Variations
Always research local customs while traveling. In parts of Europe, it's customary to simply "round up" the bill. In Japan, attempting to tip is generally refused and viewed negatively.
Group Policies
Review your receipt when eating in large groups (typically 6+ depending on the restaurant). Establishments often auto-add an 18% gratuity to ensure their servers are compensated for large tables.
U.S. Tipping Guide by Service
| Service Category | Typical Tip Expectation |
|---|---|
| Restaurants, Bartenders | 15% - 20% |
| Food Delivery | 15% - 20% depending on distance |
| Hotel Room Service | Usually included (if not, 15% - 20%) |
| Hotel Housekeeping | $1 - $2 per person per night |
| Automotive Services, Mechanic | Not expected |
| Mover or Furniture Delivery | $5 - $20 each depending on load |
| Plumber, Electrician, Cleaner | Not expected, or $10 - $20 |
| Hairstylist, Barber, Nail Salon | 10% - 20% |
| Massage Therapist | 10% - 20% |
| Taxi or Uber/Lyft Drivers | 15% - 20% |
| Shuttle Drivers, Valet | $1 - $3 |
| Tour Guides | $1 - $5 depending on length |
Frequently Asked Questions
Should I tip before or after tax?
Tipping etiquette in the United States generally recommends calculating the tip based on the pre-tax total of your bill, not the after-tax total. However, many people find it easier to just use the final total, which results in a slightly higher tip for the server.
Do I have to tip if the service was bad?
While tipping is technically voluntary, it constitutes a major part of a service worker's income in the U.S. due to lower tipped minimum wages. If service was exceptionally poor, speaking to a manager is often better than leaving no tip at all, though standard practice for subpar service is a reduced tip of around 10%.
What is an "Automatic Gratuity"?
Many restaurants automatically apply a gratuity (typically 18% to 20%) to the bill for large parties, usually groups of 6 or more. If an automatic gratuity has been applied, you are not obligated to leave an additional tip, unless you wish to reward exceptional service.
Is it offensive to tip in other countries?
Yes, in several countries primarily in East Asia (like Japan and South Korea), tipping is not part of the culture. Attempting to tip can cause confusion and may occasionally be interpreted as an insult, implying the employer does not pay them a proper wage.
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