How Much to Tip: A Complete Guide
Tipping should be simple, but the "right" amount changes with the service and the country you're in. This guide gives you clear, accurate numbers for every common situation — and when you're ready to work out an exact amount, our free tip calculator does the math and splits the bill in seconds.
Quick answer: at a sit-down restaurant in the US, 20% of the pre-tax bill is the current standard tip. Calculate the exact amount →
How much to tip, by service
These are typical expectations in the United States, where tipping is a significant part of many workers' income. Amounts are guidelines, not rules — adjust for the quality of service.
| Service | Customary tip | Notes |
|---|---|---|
| Restaurant (sit-down) | 20% | Of the pre-tax bill; 15% is the floor for below-par service |
| Food delivery | 15–20% | Minimum $3–5; more in bad weather or for large orders |
| Coffee / counter service | Optional | Round up or $1; tip jars are appreciated, not expected |
| Bartender | $1–2 per drink | Or 15–20% of the total tab |
| Taxi / rideshare | 10–15% | Round up for short trips |
| Hairdresser / barber | 15–20% | Of the service price |
| Spa / massage | 15–20% | Check whether gratuity is already added |
| Hotel housekeeping | $2–5 per night | Left daily, since staff may rotate |
| Hotel bellhop / porter | $1–2 per bag | $2 minimum |
| Valet | $2–5 | Paid when the car is returned |
| Movers | $20–40 per mover | For a full day; more for stairs or heavy items |
| Tour guide | 10–20% | Per person for group tours |
Tipping at restaurants, in detail
Pre-tax or post-tax?
The customary approach is to tip on the pre-tax subtotal, because the tax isn't part of the service. In practice, many people tip on the final total simply because it's easier — and the difference is only the tax portion, usually small. Either is perfectly acceptable.
What the percentages signal
In American dining, 20% is now the standard tip for normal, satisfactory service — what was once "good service" money has become the everyday default. 15% reads as the minimum and suggests something was lacking, while 25% or more is a warm gesture for service that truly stood out.
Watch for an included service charge
Many restaurants automatically add gratuity for large parties (often six or more), and some now add a service charge for everyone. If gratuity is already on the bill, you don't need to tip again — always glance at the itemized total before adding anything.
Splitting the bill and the tip
To split fairly, add the tip to the bill first, then divide the total by the number of people — not the other way around. That way the tip is shared evenly along with the meal. Our tip calculator shows each person's exact share automatically, so there's no mental math and no awkward rounding at the table.
Tipping around the world
Tipping customs vary dramatically by country. In some places a generous tip is expected; in others it can cause confusion or even offense. These are general norms for travelers — customs do evolve, especially in tourist areas.
| Country / region | Restaurant norm | Notes |
|---|---|---|
| United States | 15–20% | Expected; core to service workers' pay |
| Canada | 15–20% | Similar to the US |
| United Kingdom | 10–12.5% | Often added as a service charge; don't double-tip |
| France | Included | "Service compris" by law; round up for good service |
| Italy / Spain | Included / round up | A small "coperto" or cover charge is common |
| Germany | 5–10% | Round up and tell the server the total |
| Japan | No tipping | Can be seen as impolite; excellent service is standard |
| China | No tipping | Uncommon, though changing in high-end tourist spots |
| South Korea | No tipping | Not expected and not part of the culture |
| Australia / New Zealand | Not expected | Round up or ~10% for exceptional service |
| India | 5–10% | Check for an included service charge first |
| UAE / Middle East | 10–15% | A service charge is often already added |
| Latin America | ~10% | Sometimes included as "propina"; verify the bill |
When you're unsure, a small round-up is almost always a safe, polite choice — and never tip on top of an already-included service charge unless you want to.
Frequently asked questions
How much should I tip at a restaurant?
In the US, 20% of the pre-tax bill is the current standard for sit-down service. 15% is considered the minimum, and below that signals that something was wrong.
Should I tip on the pre-tax or post-tax total?
Pre-tax is customary and slightly cheaper, but tipping on the total is common for simplicity. Both are acceptable — the difference is only the sales tax.
Is 20% a good tip?
Yes — 20% is the current US standard and what most diners now leave by default for satisfactory service. It's a solid, socially expected tip.
Do I need to tip if a service charge is included?
No. If gratuity or a service charge is already on the bill — common in Europe and for large groups — you don't need to tip again. Check the bill first.
How do I split a tip between several people?
Add the tip to the bill, then divide the total by the number of people. A tip calculator does this instantly and shows each person's exact share.
More tipping guides
Ready to work out an exact amount? Use the free tip calculator — pick your tip, split the bill, and see what each person owes in any currency.