Budgeting & saving

Tip calculator

Quick, accurate tip and bill-splitting, no app download needed.

Quick reference: what’s a “normal” tip?

In the U.S., 15-20% has long been the standard range for sit-down restaurant service, with 18-20% increasingly common as a baseline. For counter service, delivery, or specialty situations (large groups, exceptional service, poor service), the “right” amount is more personal judgment than fixed rule — there’s no universal standard here, and reasonable people disagree.

How to use this calculator well

Enter the bill amount before tax if you want to tip on the pre-tax subtotal (many people do this intentionally, since sales tax isn’t something the server controls), or the full amount shown on the receipt if you’d rather tip on the total. Both are common practices.

FAQ

Should I tip on the pre-tax or post-tax amount? Either is acceptable — there’s no rule here, just personal preference. Pre-tax is more common among people who tip precisely; post-tax is simpler and slightly more generous.

What’s a reasonable tip for large groups? Some restaurants add an automatic service charge for large parties (often 18-20%) — check your receipt before adding an additional tip on top, since double-tipping is easy to do by accident.

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