Transparent method
The formula
Worked example
Example inputs
How to interpret the result
Whether a tip is calculated on the pre-tax or post-tax bill amount is a real, if small, difference that local custom and personal preference both weigh in on, and choosing the base that doesn't match the actual local convention produces a tip that's consistently a little off from what's typically expected.
Before you rely on it
What to check
Confirm which bill base, pre-tax or post-tax, matches the local custom for the specific situation before calculating the tip percentage against it.
The common error
Where people go wrong with tip calculator
Assuming tip should always be calculated on the post-tax total. Local convention varies, and using the wrong base produces a consistently, if modestly, different tip amount than what's typically expected in that specific practice.
Sensitivity evidence
How tip percentage changes the total per person
| Tip percentage | Total per person | Total tip |
|---|---|---|
| 16.0% | $49 | $14 |
| 18.0% | $50 | $15 |
| 20.0%worked example | $51 | $17 |
| 22.0% | $52 | $19 |
| 24.0% | $53 | $20 |
Every input, tested
Which input moves the total per person most
| Input | Tested from | To | Total per person at each end | Swing |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Number of people | 1 | 3 | $102 to $34 | $68 (133%) |
| Bill before tip | $77 | $94 | $46 to $56 | $10 (20%) |
| Tip percentage | 18.0% | 22.0% | $50 to $52 | $1.70 (3.3%) |
Two variables at once
Total per person by tip percentage and bill before tip
| Tip percentage \ Bill before tip | $68 | $85 | $102 |
|---|---|---|---|
| 16.0% | $39 | $49 | $59 |
| 18.0% | $40 | $50 | $60 |
| 20.0% | $41 | $51 | $61 |
| 22.0% | $41 | $52 | $62 |
| 24.0% | $42 | $53 | $63 |
Step by step
The worked example, input by input
| Input | Value used |
|---|---|
| Bill before tip | $85 |
| Tip percentage | 20.0% |
| Number of people | 2 |
| Total per person | $51 |
| Total tip | $17 |
Where the inputs come from
Bill before tip can be the subtotal or the total with tax, and etiquette varies: many people tip on the pre-tax amount, while others use the total. Tip percentage depends on the service and the country. In the United States 15% to 20% is standard for table service, and up to 25% for exceptional service. The number of people is used to split the bill evenly. Check whether a service charge has already been added.
When the result stops applying
Tipping customs differ across countries, and in some places tips are included or not expected. Automatic gratuities for large parties are common. The calculator splits evenly and does not handle uneven orders. Pre-tax and post-tax tipping differ slightly, and some prefer to tip on the pre-discount total.
What to compare it with
For discounts see the discount calculator, and check taxes on the sales tax and reverse sales tax pages. The percentage calculator covers general percentages, and the unit price page compares package sizes. The trip cost calculator splits costs among travelers.
People also ask
Frequently asked questions
How much should I tip at a restaurant?
In the United States, 15% to 20% of the bill for table service is standard, with more for excellent service and less at counter service.
Should I tip on the pre-tax or post-tax amount?
Either is acceptable. Many people tip on the pre-tax subtotal, and some tip on the total. The difference is a small amount.
How do I split the bill fairly?
Split evenly when everyone ordered similar amounts, or divide by what each person ordered plus their share of tax and tip.