Tip Calculator for Restaurants and Group Dinners
Math at a restaurant is harder than it should be: 4 people, one tipsy person paying with a different card, a service-charge surprise. The Tip Calculator handles the percentages; this guide handles the etiquette.
Use the calculator
Tip Calculator
Step-by-step
- 1
Tip on pre-tax or post-tax?
Pre-tax is the original "20% of the meal" convention. Post-tax adds maybe $1-2 more on a typical bill. Either is acceptable; consistency matters more.
- 2
Standard percentages
15% poor service, 18% adequate, 20% good, 22-25% great. Below 15% sends a message you may not intend; above 25% is generous, not required.
- 3
Split evenly with the calculator
Enter the bill, tip percentage, and number of people. The Tip Calculator returns per-person total — easiest when everyone shared similar dishes.
- 4
Itemize when ordering varies wildly
If one person had soup and one had steak + cocktails, even split feels unfair. Use a separate split-by-item app, or have each person pay their items + their share of tax/tip.
- 5
Watch for already-included service charge
Many restaurants auto-add 18-20% gratuity for parties of 6+. Read the bill — adding tip on top is double-tipping.
💡 Tips
- Tipping in cash on a card check is fine and usually preferred by servers (some restaurants take a cut of card tips).
- For takeout, 10% is generous; 0-5% is normal. The labor is dramatically less than table service.
- Buffet servers (drink refills, clearing plates) deserve 10% — less than table service but not zero.
FAQ
Do I tip on the alcohol portion?
Yes. Bartenders and servers split tip pools, and pouring a $14 cocktail is real work.
What about international tipping?
Varies wildly. Japan: no tip ever (insulting). Europe: 5-10% if not included. Australia: optional. Stick to local norms; US 20% defaults can offend.
Tip on delivery?
10-15% or $3-5 minimum. Drivers bear gas, vehicle wear, and weather. Bad tippers get bad service over time.
Disclaimer. This guide is for general educational and informational purposes only and is not financial, tax, or legal advice. Calculator results are estimates based on the figures and assumptions you enter; rates and tax rules change and vary by situation. Consult a licensed professional before making financial decisions. Read our editorial policy.