Tip Calculator

Frequently Asked Questions

• How much should I tip in the US?

  Standard restaurant service: 15-20% of the pre-tax bill. Exceptional service: 20-25%. Bar/cafes: $1-2 per drink or 15-20%. Delivery: 10-15% with $5 minimum. Hairdressers/personal services: 15-20%.

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

  Etiquette varies. Pre-tax is standard, but many people tip on the post-tax total for simplicity. Our calculator lets you choose either base.

• How do I split a bill unevenly?

  Use the "Uneven split" mode — assign each person their own subtotal and tip percentage. The calculator computes per-person totals and the grand total.

• What is a service charge vs tip?

  Service charge is mandatory, set by the restaurant, and may not go to the server. Tip is optional and goes directly to staff. If the bill includes a service charge, additional tip is at your discretion.

• Should I tip on takeout?

  Tipping on pure takeout is optional — 10% is appreciated for large or complex orders. For curbside pickup or counter service, $1-3 or 10% is generous.

• How do I tip for buffets or fast-casual?

  Buffets where staff brings drinks/clears plates: 10%. Fast-casual counter service: jar tipping is voluntary — $1-2 if you sit and are served.

• Is rounding up an acceptable tip?

  Rounding to a whole dollar is fine for very small bills (coffee, snacks). For sit-down meals, percentage-based tipping is the norm.

• Do I tip on the cost of the bottle of wine?

  Standard practice is to tip on the full bill including wine. Some etiquette guides suggest a flat per-bottle tip ($10–20) for very expensive bottles.

• Tipping in different countries?

  US/Canada: 15-20% expected. UK: 10-12.5% (often added as service charge). Europe: 5-10% rounded up. Japan: tipping not customary. Australia: not expected but appreciated.

• How do I split a bill with one person ordering more?

  Use the uneven split mode. Assign each person their own item subtotal, then apply a uniform or per-person tip rate. The calculator handles the math precisely.