The split, at a glance
A 20% tip is the accent slice. The total is split evenly across the number of people you set.
What to tip in the US
| Service | Usual tip |
|---|---|
| Sit-down restaurant | 18–20% |
| Bartender | $1–2 a drink, or 15–20% |
| Food delivery | 15–20%, at least $3–5 |
| Taxi / rideshare | 10–15% |
| Hairdresser / barber | 15–20% |
| Counter / takeout | 0–10%, optional |
Quick 20%: move the decimal one place and double it — $46 → $4.60 → ~$9. For 15%, take that 10% and add half again.
Two things worth checking
- Auto-gratuity on groups. Many restaurants add an 18% service charge for parties of six or more. Check the bill so you don't tip twice.
- The terminal's suggestions. Card readers often suggest 18–30% calculated on the post-tax total. You can always choose "custom" and enter your own amount.
Common questions
What is a standard restaurant tip in the US?
20% for good service at a sit-down restaurant, 15% for average, and 25% or more for exceptional. Below 15% reads as a signal that something was wrong.
Should I tip on the pre-tax or post-tax amount?
Strictly, on the pre-tax total, since tax does not go to the server. In practice most people tip on the full bill, and the difference is only a dollar or two — on a $100 bill with 8% tax, 20% is $20 pre-tax versus $21.60 post-tax.
How do I split a bill with the tip included?
Add the tip to the bill first, then divide by the number of people. A $50 bill plus 20% is $60, which is $30 each between two.
