Tipping Guide by Service Type
🍽️ Restaurant Tipping Standards
| Service Type |
Standard Tip |
Good Service |
Excellent Service |
Notes |
| Full-Service Restaurant |
15-18% |
18-20% |
20-25% |
Pre-tax amount recommended |
| Fast Casual |
10-15% |
15-18% |
18-20% |
Counter service with some table service |
| Coffee Shop |
$1-2 |
15% |
18-20% |
Or spare change for simple orders |
| Food Delivery |
15-20% |
20% |
25%+ |
Minimum $3-5, more for bad weather |
| Takeout |
10% |
15% |
18% |
Optional but appreciated |
🚖 Service Industry Tipping
| Service |
Standard Rate |
Premium Service |
When to Tip |
| Taxi/Uber/Lyft |
15-20% |
20-25% |
Always, more for help with luggage |
| Hair Stylist/Barber |
15-20% |
20-25% |
Per service, not for salon owner |
| Hotel Housekeeping |
$2-5/night |
$5-10/night |
Daily or at checkout |
| Spa Services |
15-20% |
20-25% |
Per service provider |
| Valet Parking |
$2-5 |
$5-10 |
When car is returned |
How to Use the Tip Calculator
💰 Basic Tip Calculation
Step 1: Enter your bill amount (e.g., $50.00)
Step 2: Select a tip percentage or enter a custom percentage
Step 3: Click "Calculate Tip" to see results
Example: $50 bill with 18% tip = $9.00 tip, $59.00 total
👥 Bill Splitting
Step 1: Enter the total bill amount
Step 2: Select tip percentage for the group
Step 3: Enter number of people sharing the bill
Step 4: Get per-person amount including tip
Example: $80 bill + 20% tip ÷ 4 people = $24.00 per person
⭐ Service Quality Rating
Step 1: Enter your bill amount
Step 2: Rate the service quality you received
Step 3: Get automatic tip recommendation
Guidelines: Poor (10%), Fair (12%), Good (15%), Great (18%), Excellent (20%)
🎯 Custom Tip Amount
Step 1: Enter your bill amount
Step 2: Enter exact tip amount in dollars
Step 3: Optionally set number of people to split
Step 4: See effective tip percentage and per-person breakdown
Example: $45 bill + $12 tip = 26.67% tip rate
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
What's the standard tip percentage in restaurants?
The standard tip in US restaurants is 15-20% of the pre-tax bill amount. 15% for average service, 18% for good service, and 20% or more for excellent service. This calculator makes it easy to calculate these amounts instantly.
Should I tip on the pre-tax or post-tax amount?
It's standard practice to calculate tips on the pre-tax amount. This is what most etiquette experts recommend and what service industry workers expect. However, some people choose to tip on the total including tax - both are acceptable.
How do I split a bill with different tip preferences?
The easiest approach is to agree on a tip percentage for the group (usually 18-20%). Use our split bill calculator to determine each person's share. If individuals strongly prefer different tip amounts, calculate the average or let each person contribute their preferred amount.
Is there a minimum tip amount I should leave?
Even for small bills, consider leaving at least $1-2 as a minimum tip. For delivery services, $3-5 is typically the minimum regardless of order size, as drivers have vehicle costs and time investment.
Do I need to tip for takeout orders?
Takeout tips are optional but appreciated. 10% is common for takeout, or you can tip a flat amount ($1-3). If the restaurant does a lot of preparation work for your order, consider tipping closer to 15%.
How much should I tip for delivery in bad weather?
In bad weather (rain, snow, extreme temperatures), it's considerate to tip 25% or more, with a minimum of $5. Delivery drivers face additional challenges and risks during severe weather conditions.
What if my bill already includes a service charge or gratuity?
Check your bill carefully for automatic gratuity (common for groups of 6+). If a service charge is already included, additional tipping is optional but you can add extra for exceptional service. This is typically an additional 3-5%.
Can I use this calculator for international tipping?
Yes, but research local customs first. Tipping practices vary significantly worldwide. Some countries include service charges, others consider tips insulting, and some have different standard percentages. This calculator works for any percentage you determine is appropriate.
How do I tip when using a discount or coupon?
Always tip based on the original bill amount before discounts or coupons are applied. The server provided the same level of service regardless of your discount, so they deserve a tip based on the full value of the service provided.
Is this calculator accurate for all currencies?
Yes! The calculator works with any currency. Just enter amounts in your local currency and the percentage calculations will be accurate. The dollar sign in the display is just a symbol - the math works for euros, pounds, yen, or any other currency.
About This Tip Calculator
Our comprehensive Tip Calculator is designed to make dining out and service transactions stress-free. Whether you're dining alone, with friends, or hosting a business meal, this tool ensures you always tip appropriately and fairly.
Why Choose Our Tip Calculator?
🎯
Four Calculator Types
Basic tip calculation, bill splitting, service quality rating, and custom tip amounts all in one convenient tool.
📊
Detailed Breakdowns
See complete payment breakdowns including tip per person, bill per person, and grand totals for easy verification.
🔒
Privacy Protected
All calculations are performed locally in your browser. No personal data is transmitted or stored on our servers.
⚡
Lightning Fast
Instant calculations perfect for busy restaurants. Quick percentage buttons for common tip amounts (15%, 18%, 20%).
📱
Mobile Optimized
Large, touch-friendly buttons perfect for use on smartphones at restaurants. Works offline once loaded.
🆓
Completely Free
Full access to all calculator features without registration, subscriptions, or hidden costs. Free forever.
Disclaimer: This tip calculator provides guidance based on common tipping practices. Actual tipping customs may vary by location, establishment type, and cultural norms. Please consider local practices and your personal service experience when determining appropriate tip amounts.