Bill Breakdown
Tipping Etiquette Guide
Understanding when and how much to tip can be confusing. Here's a comprehensive guide to help you navigate tipping in various situations.
When and How Much to Tip
General Tipping Guidelines
In the United States, tipping is customary and expected in most service industries. A standard tip of 15-20% is appropriate for good service at restaurants. For exceptional service, consider tipping 20-25% or more. If service was poor, 10-15% may be appropriate, though it's worth discussing concerns with management.
Remember that many service workers rely on tips as a significant portion of their income. When in doubt, err on the side of generosity. For takeout orders, while tipping is not required, a small tip of 10% or a few dollars is appreciated, especially for large or complex orders.
Frequently Asked Questions
For a quick 20% tip, simply move the decimal point one place to the left (that's 10%), then double it. For example, on a $45 bill: 10% is $4.50, so 20% is $9.00. For 15%, calculate 10% and add half of that amount. Using our calculator makes it even easier!
Traditionally, tips are calculated on the pre-tax subtotal. However, many people tip on the total amount including tax for simplicity. The difference is usually minimal, so either approach is acceptable. For high-tax areas or large bills, tipping on the pre-tax amount can save a few dollars.
While you can reduce your tip for genuinely poor service, consider whether issues were the server's fault or due to kitchen delays, understaffing, or other factors. A tip of 10-15% for subpar service is generally acceptable. If service was truly unacceptable, speak with a manager before significantly reducing your tip.
The simplest approach is to calculate the total tip on the entire bill, then divide equally among all diners. Alternatively, each person can calculate their tip based on their individual order. Our calculator's "split" feature makes this easy by dividing both the bill and tip per person.
Tipping customs vary by country and context. In the US, tips aren't typically expected at fast-food restaurants, retail stores, or when picking up takeout. Some restaurants include a service charge for large parties, so check your bill. In many countries outside North America, tipping is less common or may even be considered rude.