Tip Calculator
Enter the bill, tap a tip percentage, split between any number of people.
How much to tip in the U.S. (current norms)
| Service | Typical tip |
|---|---|
| Sit-down restaurant | 18–20% (15% floor for weak service) |
| Bar | $1–$2 per drink, or 18–20% on a tab |
| Food delivery | 15–20%, $3–$5 minimum |
| Takeout counter | 0–10%, optional |
| Rideshare / taxi | 10–20% |
| Hair / salon / barber | 15–20% |
| Hotel housekeeping | $2–$5 per night, left daily |
| Movers, valet, bellhop | $5–$20 per person / $2–$5 per bag or car |
The math
Two quick mental tricks: 20% is the bill’s digits shifted once, doubled ($68.50 → $6.85 → $13.70). For 18%, take 20% and knock off a tenth of it.
Pre-tax or post-tax?
Etiquette convention says the tip is figured on the pre-tax subtotal; most people in practice tip on the after-tax total because it’s the number on the bottom of the receipt. On a $68.50 bill with 9% tax, the 18% difference is about $1.11 — pick a lane and don’t stress it. (Enter whichever amount you prefer above.)
Worked example
Dinner for two comes to $68.50. An 18% tip is $12.33, total $80.83, or $40.42 each. Bumping to 20% costs just 69¢ more per person.
Frequently asked questions
Is 15% still an acceptable tip?
It reads as the floor for adequate table service today — the mainstream norm has settled at 18–20%. For counter service or takeout, smaller tips (or none) remain socially fine.
Should I tip on the discounted amount or the original bill?
On the original, pre-discount amount. A coupon or gift card reduces what you pay the restaurant, not the work the server did.
Do I still tip if a service charge or "gratuity included" line appears?
A mandatory service charge or auto-gratuity (common for parties of 6+) replaces the tip — nothing more is expected, though rounding up for great service is a kind touch. Check whether ambiguous “service fees” actually go to staff; if not stated, ask.
How do card tips reach the server?
Employers must pass card tips to employees, typically on the next paycheck, and may deduct at most the card processing fee in states that allow it. Cash tips reach the server same-day, which is why some people prefer tipping cash.
Last reviewed: 2026-08-20 · Report an issue