Tip Calculator
Calculate the perfect tip amount based on your bill, desired tip percentage, and party size. Perfect for dining out, delivery orders, or any service that deserves gratuity.
How could this calculator be better?
We're always looking to improve our tools. Here are some ideas we're considering:
- Add support for different currencies
- Include tax calculation options
- Add ability to split bill unevenly
- Include tipping guidelines by country/region
- Add option to save favorite tip percentages
Email us at yoursmartcalculator@gmail.com with your suggestions!
Related Calculators
Tipping Guidelines
- •Restaurants: 15-20% of the pre-tax bill is standard in the US
- •Bartenders: $1-2 per drink or 15-20% of the tab
- •Food delivery: 10-15% of the bill, minimum $2-5
- •Taxi/rideshare: 15-20% of the fare
Understanding Tipping
How Tip Calculations Work
Calculating a tip is a simple percentage calculation. The basic formula is:
Tip Amount = Bill Amount × (Tip Percentage ÷ 100)
For example, a 15% tip on a $50 bill would be $50 × (15 ÷ 100) = $7.50.
The total bill with tip would then be $50 + $7.50 = $57.50.
Tipping Etiquette
Tipping customs vary widely around the world. In the United States, tipping is customary and often expected for many service industries, while in other countries, it may be less common or even considered offensive.
In the US, here are some general tipping guidelines:
- Restaurants: 15-20% for good service
- Buffets: 10% of the total bill
- Bartenders: $1-2 per drink or 15-20% of the tab
- Food delivery: 10-15% of the bill, minimum $2-5
- Taxi/rideshare: 15-20% of the fare
- Hotel housekeeping: $2-5 per day
- Hairstylists/barbers: 15-20% of the service cost
Splitting the Bill
When dining with a group, it's common to split the bill and tip. This calculator helps you determine how much each person should contribute.
For an even split, the formula is:
Amount Per Person = (Bill Amount + Tip Amount) ÷ Number of People
Frequently Asked Questions
Should I tip on the tax?
Traditionally, tips are calculated on the pre-tax amount of the bill. However, many people tip on the total bill (including tax) for convenience. Either approach is acceptable, though tipping on the pre-tax amount is technically the standard practice.
How much should I tip for bad service?
In the US, where servers often rely on tips as a significant portion of their income, it's generally recommended to leave at least 10% even for subpar service. For truly poor service, consider speaking with a manager rather than leaving no tip at all.
Do I need to tip when there's a service charge?
If a service charge or gratuity is already included in the bill, you typically don't need to leave an additional tip. However, if the service was exceptional, you might consider leaving a small additional amount. Check whether the service charge goes to the server or to the establishment.
How do I calculate a tip without a calculator?
For a quick mental calculation, you can use these shortcuts:
- For 10%: Move the decimal point one place to the left
- For 15%: Calculate 10%, then add half of that amount
- For 20%: Calculate 10%, then double it
Is it better to tip in cash or on a card?
Many servers prefer cash tips because they receive them immediately and sometimes they're subject to fewer taxes or processing fees. However, tipping on a card is perfectly acceptable and ensures you have a record of the tip for expense tracking or reimbursement purposes.