A fast, free tip calculator and bill splitter. Instantly calculate 15%, 18%, or 20% gratuity and divide the total cost exactly between friends.
Split Bill
Number of people
Standard Tipping Etiquette Guide
Tipping culture varies wildly across the globe, but in the United States and Canada, gratuity is deeply woven into the service industry. While it is technically optional, the unwritten rules are firmly established by societal norms to compensate servers whose base wages fall below the federal minimum.
Poor Service
Reserved for exceptionally bad experiences requiring managerial attention.
The Bare Minimum
Historically standard, but now considered the strict minimum acceptable floor.
Great Service
The modern standard for good, attentive sit-down restaurant service.
Exceptional
For outstanding service, fine dining, or going above and beyond.
How to Calculate a 20% Tip Manually
If your phone is dead and you cannot use our automated Tip Calculator, the easiest mathematical trick to find a standard 20% tip is to instantly locate 10%, and double it.
- Look at the total bill. (e.g. $45.00)
- Move the decimal point exactly one place to the left. This yields 10%. (e.g. $4.50)
- Double that number in your head. (e.g. $4.50 x 2 = $9.00 Tip)
Splitting the Check Fairly
The most awkward part of group dining is splitting the physical receipt. Our calculator divides both the base receipt and the chosen gratuity equally among your party.
Always double-check that your restaurant has not automatically applied an "Auto-Gratuity" (frequently 18% or 20%) to tables larger than 6 people before using our tool to split the remaining subtotal.
Frequently Asked Questions
Do I tip on the total including tax, or just the subtotal?
Technically, proper etiquette dictates you only tip on the subtotal before tax (the actual cost of the food and beverage service). However, almost everyone finds it easiest to just take the post-tax bottom line integer and calculate 20% against it. It only translates to pennies of a difference.
Do I tip on takeout or to-go orders?
While not strictly mandatory like sit-down service, leaving a 10% to 15% tip for takeout orders is considered good etiquette, especially if the staff had to assemble complex packaging, sauces, or large catering boxes.
The tools and calculators provided on The Simple Toolbox are intended for educational and informational purposes only. They do not constitute financial, legal, tax, or professional advice. While we strive to keep calculations accurate, numbers are based on user inputs and standard assumptions that may not apply to your specific situation. Always consult with a certified professional (such as a CPA, financial advisor, or attorney) before making significant financial or business decisions.
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