How Much to Tip: A Practical Guide
Tipping in the United States is customary rather than legally required, but in many jobs tips make up a large part of a worker’s income. These are the amounts most people follow.
Why tipping matters in the US
Federal law allows employers to pay tipped employees a lower cash wage than the standard minimum, on the expectation that tips make up the difference. Some states require the full minimum wage before tips, but the custom of tipping applies nationwide.
Customary amounts
| Service | Typical tip |
|---|---|
| Sit-down restaurant | 15%–20% of the pre-tax bill; more for excellent service |
| Bartender | $1–$2 per drink, or 15%–20% of the tab |
| Food delivery | 15%–20%, with a minimum of a few dollars |
| Takeout and counter service | Optional; 0%–10% |
| Buffet | About 10% |
| Taxi or rideshare | 15%–20% |
| Hairdresser or barber | 15%–20% |
| Hotel housekeeping | $2–$5 per night |
| Bellhop | $1–$2 per bag |
| Valet parking | $2–$5 when the car is returned |
These are conventions, not rules. Tip more for exceptional service, large or complicated orders, or bad weather on a delivery.
Pre-tax or post-tax?
Traditionally, the tip is calculated on the pre-tax subtotal. Many people tip on the total for simplicity, which makes the tip slightly larger. Either is acceptable.
Check the bill first
- Automatic gratuity. Restaurants often add 18% to 20% for groups of six or more. If it is already on the bill, an additional tip is optional.
- Service charges. A “service fee” is not always passed on to staff. If you are unsure, ask.
- Suggested tips on receipts. These are sometimes calculated on the post-tax total, so they can be a little higher than the stated percentage of your subtotal.
Easy mental math
- 10%: move the decimal point one place to the left. On $64.00, that is $6.40.
- 20%: double the 10% figure. $12.80.
- 15%: take 10% and add half of it. $6.40 + $3.20 = $9.60.
- 18%: take 20% and subtract a tenth of it. $12.80 − $1.28 = $11.52.
Splitting the bill
To split evenly, add the tip to the bill and divide by the number of people. For an $80 bill with an 18% tip between four people:
- Tip: $14.40
- Total: $94.40
- Each person pays: $23.60
If everyone ordered very different amounts, it is fairer to calculate each person’s share of the subtotal and apply the same tip percentage to each.
Digital tip screens
Tablet checkouts now suggest tips in places where tipping was never customary, such as retail counters. You are free to choose “no tip” or a custom amount for counter service; the conventions above still apply.
When service is poor
For genuinely bad service, tipping at the low end of the range and mentioning the problem to a manager is more effective than leaving nothing. Remember that problems with the food or wait times are often outside your server’s control.
Results are estimates for informational purposes only and are not financial, tax, legal or medical advice.