What is a Tip?
A tip (or gratuity) is a voluntary extra payment given to service workers — restaurant staff, delivery drivers, hairdressers, taxi drivers — as a thank-you for good service. It's a major part of income for service workers in countries like the USA.
Standard Tip Percentages by Country
- USA: 15–20% for sit-down restaurants. 10–15% for takeout/delivery. 18–20% for taxis.
- UK: 10–12.5% is common. Many restaurants add a "service charge" — check the bill first.
- Canada: 15–20%, similar to the USA.
- Australia: Not expected, but 10% is appreciated for excellent service.
- Europe: Generally 5–10% or rounding up the bill. Tipping is less expected than in North America.
- Japan: Tipping is not customary and can be considered rude.
How to Calculate a Tip
The formula is simple: Tip = Bill × Tip Percentage ÷ 100
- Bill = $50, Tip = 20% → Tip = $10 → Total = $60
- To split equally: Per person = Total ÷ Number of people
FAQ
Should I tip if service was bad?
In the USA, service workers rely on tips as a significant part of their income (often $2–3/hour base wage). Even for mediocre service, 10% is considered the minimum. For truly terrible service, speak to a manager rather than leaving nothing.
How do I split a bill unevenly?
When people order different amounts, calculate each person's share separately then add their individual tip. Our calculator handles equal splits — for unequal splits, calculate each person's portion first.