How to Calculate Tips and Split Bills
Our tip calculator helps you quickly determine how much to tip at restaurants, salons, or for services. Easily calculate tips at different percentages and split the bill among multiple people for hassle-free group dining.
Understanding Tipping
A tip (or gratuity) is an extra payment given to service workers beyond the bill amount. In the US, tipping is customary for table service, and the standard range is 15-20% of the pre-tax bill. Tipping customs vary by country and service type.
Tip Calculation Formula
Tip Amount = Bill Total × (Tip Percentage ÷ 100). Total with Tip = Bill Total + Tip Amount. Per Person = Total with Tip ÷ Number of People.
Example:
For a $85 bill with 20% tip split 4 ways: Tip = $85 × 0.20 = $17. Total = $85 + $17 = $102. Per person = $102 ÷ 4 = $25.50.
Common Use Cases
Real-world applications for this calculator
Restaurant Dining
Calculate appropriate tips for servers based on service quality (15% average, 18-20% for good service, 20%+ for excellent).
Group Meals
Split the total bill including tip evenly among friends or colleagues.
Service Industry
Calculate tips for hair stylists, taxi drivers, delivery persons, and other service providers.
Tips
- Quick 10% tip: move the decimal point one place left ($50 → $5).
- For 15%: calculate 10% and add half of that amount.
- For 20%: calculate 10% and double it.
- Many restaurants add automatic gratuity (18-20%) for large groups.
Frequently Asked Questions
How much should I tip at a restaurant?
In the US, 15-20% is standard for sit-down restaurants. Tip 15% for adequate service, 18% for good service, and 20% or more for excellent service. Some people tip on the pre-tax amount, others on the total.
How do I calculate a 20% tip quickly?
To find 20%, calculate 10% (move the decimal point left) and double it. For a $65 bill: 10% is $6.50, so 20% is $13. For 15%, find 10% and add half of that.
Should I tip on the pre-tax or post-tax amount?
Either is acceptable. Traditionally, tips are calculated on the pre-tax amount, but many people tip on the total for simplicity. The difference is usually small.
How do I split a bill with different tip amounts?
Calculate each person's share of the food, then add their individual tip amount. Or, agree on a tip percentage, add it to the total, and divide equally.
What if there's already a service charge on the bill?
A service charge is not the same as a tip and may not go to your server. Check if it's mandatory and whether additional tipping is expected. In the US, you may still tip extra if service was good.