Math

Tip calculator.

The tip, the total, and what each person owes when you split the bill.

How much to tip

In the US, table service is typically tipped 15–20% of the pre-tax bill — 18% is a common default, and 20% is standard for good service. The tip is calculated on the bill itself; whether you tip on the pre-tax or post-tax amount is up to you, though pre-tax is the traditional rule. When splitting, this calculator divides the full total (bill plus tip) evenly across the group, which keeps things simple even if the tip percentage produces an awkward number. For the underlying math, see the percentage calculator.

A worked example and other services

On an $86.40 bill at 18%, the tip is $15.55 and the total is $101.95 — split two ways that's $50.98 each. To split unevenly, total up what each person actually ordered, then add the same tip percentage to every share so the tip is divided in proportion to spending rather than flat. Norms vary by service: bar staff usually get $1–2 per drink or 15–20% on a tab; food delivery runs 15–20%, with a couple of dollars as a minimum on small or bad-weather orders; and taxi or rideshare drivers around 10–15%. Coffee, counter service and takeout are optional. When in doubt, round the total up to a whole number to keep the math and the change simple.

FAQ

Is tip calculated before or after tax?
Traditionally tip is figured on the pre-tax subtotal, but many people tip on the full total for simplicity. Either is acceptable; tipping on the pre-tax amount is the conventional rule.
What's a standard restaurant tip?
For sit-down service in the US, 15–20% is normal — 18% as a default and 20% for good service. Counter service and takeout are usually tipped less or not at all.
How do I split a bill unevenly?
Work out each person's share of the pre-tip bill based on what they ordered, then add the same tip percentage to every share. That way the tip is split in proportion to what each person spent rather than divided flat.
Should I tip on delivery and takeout?
Delivery drivers are typically tipped 15–20%, with a couple of dollars as a minimum on small or bad-weather orders. Takeout you collect yourself is optional — many people leave nothing or round up a dollar or two.

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