Free Tip Calculator
Calculate the perfect tip for restaurants, bars, and service providers. Our tip calculator makes it easy to determine 15%, 18%, 20%, or custom tip amounts and split the bill among friends.
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Note: This result is an estimate. It is standard practice to tip on the pre-tax amount.
The Complete Guide to Tipping Etiquette
Understanding Tipping Culture
Tipping is an integral part of American service culture. Unlike many countries where service charges are included, the United States relies on gratuities to supplement service workers' wages. Understanding proper tipping etiquette ensures you show appreciation for good service while following social norms.
Restaurant Tipping Guidelines
Full-Service Restaurants
- Excellent service: 20-25%
- Good service: 18-20%
- Acceptable service: 15-18%
- Poor service: 10-15%
Other Dining Scenarios
- Buffet restaurants: 10-15%
- Counter service: 10-15%
- Takeout orders: 0-10%
- Food trucks: 10-15%
Beyond Restaurants: Service Tipping
Personal Services
- Hair stylist: 15-20%
- Massage therapist: 15-20%
- Nail technician: 15-20%
- Barber: 15-20%
Transportation
- Taxi driver: 15-20%
- Uber/Lyft: 15-20%
- Airport shuttle: $2-5
- Valet parking: $2-5
Delivery & Hotel
- Food delivery: 10-15%
- Hotel housekeeping: $2-5/night
- Bellhop: $1-2/bag
- Concierge: $5-20
Tipping Best Practices
- •Always tip on the pre-tax amount - Calculate your tip based on the subtotal before sales tax is added.
- •Consider the full service experience - Factor in attentiveness, accuracy, and friendliness when determining tip amount.
- •Tip in cash when possible - Cash tips ensure the server receives the full amount immediately.
- •Round up for convenience - It's perfectly acceptable to round your tip to the nearest dollar for easier calculation.
Tipping Questions & Answers
What's the standard tip percentage for restaurants?
The standard tip for restaurant service is 18-20% for good service, with 15% being the minimum for acceptable service. Exceptional service may warrant 20-25%.
Should I tip on alcoholic beverages?
Yes, you should include alcoholic beverages when calculating your tip. Bartenders and servers put effort into drink service just like food service.
How much should I tip for poor service?
For poor service, 10-15% is acceptable, but consider speaking with management about the issue. Sometimes problems are beyond the server's control.
Do I tip on takeout orders?
Tipping on takeout is not required but appreciated. A small tip of 10% acknowledges the staff who prepared and packaged your order.
What about automatic gratuity?
Many restaurants add automatic gratuity (usually 18-20%) for parties of 6 or more. Check your receipt to avoid double-tipping.