Tipping Guide: How Much to Tip
The tip calculator takes the math out of one of life's most common small calculations. Whether you're splitting a dinner bill with friends or just want to confirm your math, knowing the right tip amount — and how to divide it — makes dining out smoother for everyone.
Standard Tipping Rates in the US
Restaurant servers: 18–20% is standard for good service, 15% for adequate, 25%+ for exceptional. Bartenders: $1–2 per drink or 15–20% of the tab. Hair stylists and barbers: 15–20%. Food delivery: 15–20% or $3–5 minimum, depending on distance. Hotel housekeeping: $2–5 per night left daily (not just at checkout). Taxi and rideshare: 15–20%.
Pre-Tax vs. Post-Tax Tipping
Tipping on the pre-tax amount is technically correct etiquette — the server didn't provide the government's cut of the meal. Most people tip on the post-tax amount for simplicity, resulting in a very slightly higher tip. Either is acceptable; the difference on a $50 meal at 8% tax and 20% tip is about $0.80.
The Easy 20% Mental Math Trick
Move the decimal left one place (that's 10%), then double it. On a $67 bill: $6.70 × 2 = $13.40 tip. For 15%, take 10% and add half: $6.70 + $3.35 = $10.05. For 18%, take 20% and subtract 10% of that: $13.40 − $1.34 = $12.06. These quick methods work without a calculator.
Splitting the Bill Fairly
This calculator splits evenly by default. For uneven splits (different orders, some people didn't drink), the fairest approach is for each person to calculate their own subtotal and tip on their portion. Apps like Venmo and Splitwise handle complex split calculations if you need more precision than an even split provides.