The tip formula
Tip amount = bill × (tip percent ÷ 100). Total = bill + tip. For example, an $80 bill at 18% is $80 × 0.18 = $14.40 tip, for a $94.40 total.
Common tip percentages
- 10–15% — basic service in some regions
- 18–20% — standard sit-down restaurant tip in the US
- 25%+ — exceptional service or large parties
Splitting the bill
Divide the total (or tip alone) by the number of people. Equal splits are simplest; if someone ordered much more, adjust before dividing. Our tip calculator shows tip amount, total, and per-person figures.
Tax and service charges
Some people tip on the pre-tax subtotal; others tip on the total after tax. Check whether a service charge is already included before adding more. When in doubt, use local norms.