Frequently Asked Questions
What's the standard tip percentage for restaurants?
The standard tip for restaurants in the United States is typically 18-20% for good service, 15% for adequate service, and 22-25% for exceptional service. For quick service or takeout, 10-15% is common, while bars typically expect $1-2 per drink or 15-20% of the total.
Should I tip on the pre-tax or post-tax amount?
It's generally acceptable to calculate tips on either the pre-tax or post-tax amount. Many people prefer to tip on the pre-tax amount, but tipping on the total (including tax) is also common and often easier to calculate. Choose whichever method you're comfortable with and be consistent.
How do I handle splitting bills with different meal costs?
This calculator splits the total bill (including tip) evenly among all people. If individuals had significantly different meal costs, you might want to calculate tips proportionally based on each person's portion of the bill, or discuss with your group how to handle the split fairly.
What about tipping for delivery or other services?
For food delivery, 15-20% is standard, with a minimum of $3-5 even for small orders. For other services: hairstylists (15-25%), taxi/rideshare (15-20%), hotel housekeeping ($2-5 per night), and massage therapists (15-20%). Consider service quality and local customs when deciding.
Is it okay to tip less for poor service?
While you can adjust tips for service quality, remember that servers often depend on tips as a significant part of their income. For poor service, consider tipping 15% and speaking with management about the issue. Only in cases of truly unacceptable service should you consider tipping less than 15%.