How to Use the Tip Calculator
Using our tip calculator is simple. Start by selecting your Service Type from the dropdown — this automatically fills in the standard tip range so you know what's expected for that service. Then enter your Total Bill (Pre Tax), the amount before any taxes are added. Finally, enter the Number of People splitting the bill, and the calculator instantly shows your tip amount, total, and how much each person owes.
Use the Tip Slider at any time to adjust the tip percentage up or down. On desktop, the quick-select buttons (15%, 20%, 25%) let you jump to common amounts with one click. When you're happy with the total, hit Round Up to bring the total to the next whole dollar — a quick and clean way to tip a little extra. Use Copy Summary to share the full breakdown with your group via text or chat.
Tipping Guide by Service Type
Not sure how much to tip? Here's a quick reference for standard tipping etiquette across the most common services in the United States.
Restaurant (Sit Down)
15%–20%The most common tipping situation. Tip on the pre-tax total. 18%–20% is standard for good service; 15% for acceptable service.
Restaurant (Buffet)
10%Since you're serving yourself, a smaller tip is customary for the staff who refill drinks and clear plates.
Delivery
15%–20%Tip your delivery driver well — they're often paid low base wages. Factor in distance and weather conditions when deciding.
Bartender
15%–20%Many people tip $1–2 per drink for simple orders. For a tab at the end of the night, 15%–20% is the standard.
Massage / Spa
15%–20%Tip your massage therapist or facialist as you would at a restaurant. 15%–20% of the service price is the norm.
Barber / Hair Stylist
15%–20%15%–20% is the standard. If you're a regular or got exceptional service, tipping 20% or more shows your appreciation.
Taxi Driver
15%–20%15%–20% is standard for taxis and rideshares. Round up for great service, help with luggage, or a particularly smooth ride.
Manicurist
15%–20%Nail technicians are often underpaid. 15%–20% is the norm, and tipping in cash is appreciated when possible.
Frequently Asked Questions
Should I tip on the pre-tax or post-tax amount?
Tipping on the pre-tax amount is the traditional standard, and it's what this calculator uses. However, tipping on the post-tax total is becoming more common and is perfectly acceptable — it usually results in a slightly larger tip for your server.
How do I split the bill unevenly?
This calculator divides the total evenly among all people. For uneven splits, use the Copy Summary button to share the full breakdown with your group, then work out who owes what based on what each person ordered.
What does "Round Up" do?
The Round Up button bumps your total (bill plus tip) up to the next whole dollar. For example, if your total is $43.67, rounding up gives you $44.00. It adjusts the tip percentage automatically to make the math work out cleanly — great for paying in cash or keeping things simple when splitting.
Is tipping required in the United States?
Tipping is not legally required in the US, but it is a deeply embedded social custom — particularly in food service. Many service industry workers rely on tips as a significant portion of their income, especially in states where tipped minimum wages are lower than the federal minimum. In most sit-down restaurant situations, 15%–20% is the widely accepted standard.
How much should I tip for delivery?
A standard delivery tip is 15%–20% of the order total, with a minimum of $3–5 for small orders. For large orders, orders in bad weather, or long-distance deliveries, tipping on the higher end (20%+) is a thoughtful gesture. Keep in mind that delivery app fees go to the platform — the tip goes directly to the driver.