Tip Calculator
The Unwritten Rules of Tipping
In the United States and Canada, tipping is not really optional. Because federal law allows restaurants to pay servers a "sub-minimum wage" (often as low as $2.13/hr in some states), tips are legally considered part of their salary.
However, "Tipflation" (screens asking for tips at coffee shops or self-checkout) has confused everyone. Here is the modern etiquette guide.
Standard Tipping Rates (2024 Guide)
1. Sit-Down Restaurants
- 15%: Average service (Baseline).
- 18% - 20%: Good service (Standard).
- 25%+: Exceptional service.
2. Takeout & Coffee
Historically, you did not tip for takeout. Today, it is polite to leave 10% to 15% if the staff had to package a complex order, but it is not mandatory like sit-down service.
3. Delivery Drivers (DoorDash / UberEats)
Always tip drivers 15% - 20%, with a minimum of $5. They pay for their own gas and vehicle maintenance.
Pre-Tax vs. Post-Tax: The Big Debate
Should you calculate the tip on the bill before tax or after tax?
Technically, etiquette guides say you should tip on the Pre-Tax Subtotal. Why? Because the tax is money going to the government, not the restaurant.
However, most credit card machines automatically calculate the tip on the Post-Tax Total, which slightly increases the amount for the server. If you want to be generous, use the Total.
International Tipping Guide
If you travel, the rules flip upside down. In some cultures, tipping is rude.
| Region | Standard Rule | Note |
|---|---|---|
| USA / Canada | 15% - 20% | Mandatory (Wage subsidy). |
| Europe | 10% or Round Up | Servers earn a living wage. Tipping is a nice bonus. |
| Japan / Korea | $0 (No Tipping) | It is considered insulting. Excellent service is the standard. |
| Australia / NZ | $0 | Rounding up is common, but not expected. |
How to Calculate Without a Phone
If your battery dies, here is how to find 20% instantly:
- Find 10%: Move the decimal point one spot to the left. (Bill $45.00 -> $4.50).
- Double it: $4.50 x 2 = $9.00.
- That is 20%.
To find 15%: Take the 10% ($4.50) and add half of it ($2.25) -> $6.75.