Tip Calculator

Direct answer: Tip = bill × tip percentage. An $80 bill with a 20% tip gives a $16 tip and a $96 total — $24 each when split 4 ways. In the US, 15 to 20 percent is the standard restaurant tip, with more for exceptional service.

Tip formula

Tip amount = Bill × (Tip percentage ÷ 100)
Total bill = Bill + Tip amount
Each person’s share = Total bill ÷ Number of people

Bill is the restaurant bill before tip, Tip percentage is the percent you choose (for example 20), and Number of people is how many ways the bill is split. Use 1 when you are not splitting the bill.

Worked examples

Example 1: $80 bill, 20% tip, split 4. Tip = $16.00, total = $96.00, each pays $24.00.

Example 2: $50 bill, 15% tip, no split. Tip = $7.50, total = $57.50.

Example 3: $120 bill, 18% tip, split 3. Tip = $21.60, total = $141.60, each pays $47.20.

Example 4: $64.50 bill, 20% tip, no split. Tip = 64.50 × 0.20 = $12.90, total = 64.50 + 12.90 = $77.40.

Example 5: $36 bill, 15% tip, split 2. Tip = 36 × 0.15 = $5.40, total = $41.40, each pays $20.70.

Example 6: $210 bill, 25% tip, split 6. Tip = 210 × 0.25 = $52.50, total = $262.50, each pays $43.75.

How much should you tip?

In the US, 15–20% is standard for sit-down restaurant service, 20–25% for great service, and 10–15% for buffets or counter service with a tip jar. For delivery, 15–20% or a few dollars minimum is typical. Tipping on the pre-tax amount is the traditional rule; many people now tip on the total — either is acceptable, just be consistent.

Frequently asked questions

Do I tip on tax?

Traditionally tips are calculated on the pre-tax bill, but tipping on the total is also common and fine.

Should I tip for takeout?

It is optional but appreciated, typically 10% or a few dollars.

What about tip on a card vs cash?

The math is the same either way; cash tips reach the server directly, card tips go through payroll.

How do I calculate a 20% tip quickly in my head?

Move the decimal point one place to the left to find 10% of the bill, then double that number. On a $46 bill, 10% is $4.60, so a 20% tip is $9.20. This method is exact for any bill, and adding half of the 10% figure gives you 15%.

What is a good tip for food delivery?

Tip 15–20% of the order subtotal with a minimum of a few dollars, since drivers pay for their own gas and vehicle wear. Go toward the higher end in bad weather, for large orders, or when the driver has to climb stairs. A delivery fee printed on the receipt usually goes to the restaurant rather than the driver, so it does not replace the tip.

Is it rude to tip less than 15% at a restaurant?

At a US sit-down restaurant, less than 15% reads as a complaint about the service, so it is better to calmly raise serious problems with a manager. For counter service, coffee shops, and takeout, smaller tips are normal and not considered rude. When the service is good, 18–20% keeps you comfortably inside the standard range.

Sources

Tipping ranges follow the etiquette guidance of the Emily Post Institute tipping guide.