How this calculator works
The tip is a percentage of the bill — or of the bill before tax, if you enter the tax amount. The total is split evenly, and rounding each share up to the next dollar leaves a little extra for the server.
Tip = (Bill − Tax) × Tip% ÷ 100
Share = (Bill + Tip) ÷ People
Worked example
Using the default values in the calculator above:
| Input | Value |
|---|---|
| Bill total | $86.4 |
| Tip | 18 % |
| Split between | 2 people |
| Tax included in the bill (to tip on pre-tax) | $0 |
| Round each share up | No |
| Result | Value |
|---|---|
| Tip | $15.55 |
| Each person pays | $50.98 |
| Total with tip | $101.95 |
| Tip per person | $7.78 |
| Collected if rounded | $101.95 |
Common tip amounts:
- 15%: tip $12.96, total $99.36
- 18%: tip $15.55, total $101.95
- 20%: tip $17.28, total $103.68
- 22%: tip $19.01, total $105.41
- 25%: tip $21.6, total $108
Step by step:
- Tip = $86.4 × 18% = $15.55
- Total = $86.4 + $15.55 = $101.95
- Each of 2 pays $50.98
Tips on common bill amounts
At 18%, one person.
| Bill | Tip | Total with tip |
|---|---|---|
| $20 | $3.6 | $23.6 |
| $35 | $6.3 | $41.3 |
| $50 | $9 | $59 |
| $75 | $13.5 | $88.5 |
| $100 | $18 | $118 |
| $150 | $27 | $177 |
| $200 | $36 | $236 |
Common mistakes to avoid
- Splitting the pre-tip bill and forgetting to add the tip to each share.
Frequently asked questions
How much should I tip at a restaurant in the US?
For table service, 15–20% is customary, with 18–20% common for good service.
Should I tip on the total before or after tax?
Either is accepted; tipping on the pre-tax amount is traditional. Enter the tax to tip on the pre-tax amount.