How much should you tip?
Enter the bill, pick a percentage, split it fairly.
Tip is calculated on the pre-tax bill. Rounded to the nearest cent.
Tipping is a core part of American dining culture. The standard tip at a sit-down restaurant is 18–20% of the pre-tax bill, with 15% considered the floor for acceptable service and 25% reserved for truly outstanding experiences. For most people, the default choice should be 20% — it is simple to calculate (just double the bill and move the decimal) and it keeps you on the right side of the norm.
Standard etiquette is to tip on the pre-tax subtotal. Most restaurant receipts print the subtotal clearly — use that number, not the final total. The difference is small on a single meal, but it is the technically correct habit.
When dining with friends, the simplest fair method is to add the tip to the bill first, then divide the total by the number of people. If one person ordered something dramatically more expensive, split the food proportionally but divide the tip evenly — or use a bill-splitting app. This calculator does the first part for you: enter the bill, choose your percentage, set the headcount, and everyone knows exactly what they owe.
Is it rude to tip 15%? Not really — 15% is still within the accepted range for decent service. But 18–20% has become the de facto standard in most U.S. cities, so 15% can read as mild dissatisfaction.
Do I tip on takeout? It is not expected the way table service is, but 10% (or a few dollars) is appreciated since someone still packed your order.
What about tip screens asking for 25–30%? Those suggested percentages have crept up in recent years. You are never obligated to pick the highest option — choose the custom amount and tip what the service deserves.
Disclaimer: tipping norms vary by region and establishment. This calculator is a convenience tool, not a rulebook — when in doubt, be generous.
niumatoolbox.com · free tools