Why Use Our Tip Calculator?
Calculating tips and splitting bills can be stressful when you're out
with friends or colleagues. Our free tip calculator makes it
effortless to determine the right tip amount and divide costs fairly
among your group.
Key Features
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Instant calculations - See results as you type with
no delays
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Bill splitting - Easily divide costs between 1-20
people
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Multiple tip percentages - Quick buttons for common
tip amounts (15%, 18%, 20%, 25%)
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Works offline - No internet connection needed after
page loads
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Mobile optimized - Perfect for use at restaurants
on your phone
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No app required - Access directly from your browser
Whether you're dining at a restaurant, ordering delivery, or getting
drinks with friends, our calculator takes the guesswork out of tipping
and ensures everyone pays their fair share.
Frequently Asked Questions
Should I tip on tax?
▼
The traditional etiquette is to calculate tips on the pre-tax
amount, as the tax is not part of the restaurant's service.
However, many people find it more convenient to tip on the total
bill including tax, which typically results in only a slightly
higher tip. Either approach is acceptable, and some restaurants'
payment systems default to showing the post-tax amount. Choose
whichever method feels most comfortable for your situation.
How much to tip for bad service?
▼
For genuinely poor service, it's acceptable to reduce your tip to
10-12%, but consider whether the issue was within your server's
control. Kitchen delays, understaffing, or missing items may not
reflect on your server's effort. If you do leave a lower tip, it's
courteous to speak with a manager about the specific issues you
experienced. Many restaurants want to know about service problems
so they can improve and make things right.
Is tipping mandatory?
▼
In the United States, tipping is customary but not legally
required in most situations. However, many service workers earn
significantly below minimum wage and rely on tips as the majority
of their income - often making $2-3 per hour base pay. Some
restaurants add an automatic gratuity for large parties (usually
6+ people), which is disclosed on the menu or bill. While
technically optional, tipping 15-20% is a strong social norm for
good service in American dining culture.
What's the standard tip percentage?
▼
The standard tip percentage has evolved over time. While 15% was
once the norm, 18-20% is now considered standard for good service
at most restaurants. Exceptional service may warrant 25% or more,
while 15% is still acceptable for basic but adequate service.
Quick-service restaurants, coffee shops, and takeout typically
expect lower tips (10-15% or a dollar or two), while fine dining
and table service call for the full 18-20% standard.
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