Tip Calculator
The standard restaurant tip in the US is 15-20% of your pre-tax bill. Enter your bill below to calculate the exact tip and split it evenly between your group.
Tip Calculator
Need to split items individually? Forks does that automatically.
Download Forks FreeHow Much Should You Tip?
Tipping norms vary by service type. At sit-down restaurants, 18-20% is standard for good service. For exceptional service, 22-25% shows real appreciation. At bars, $1-2 per drink or 15-20% of the tab is customary.
For delivery, 15-20% (with a $3-5 minimum) accounts for the driver's time and gas. Coffee shops and fast-casual spots have tip jars and screen prompts, but tips are optional — $1 or 10-15% for complex orders is generous.
Quick Tipping Guide
| Service | Tip Range |
|---|---|
| Sit-down restaurant | 18-22% |
| Buffet | 10-15% |
| Bar / drinks | $1-2/drink or 15-20% |
| Delivery | 15-20% ($3 min) |
| Takeout | 10-15% |
| Coffee shop | $1 or 10-15% |
Frequently Asked Questions
How much should you tip at a restaurant?
The standard tip at a sit-down restaurant in the United States is 15-20% of the pre-tax bill. For excellent service, 20-25% is common. For large groups of 6 or more, many restaurants automatically add an 18-20% gratuity.
Do you tip on the total before or after tax?
Tipping etiquette says you should tip on the pre-tax subtotal of your bill. Tax is paid to the government, not the restaurant, so it shouldn't factor into your tip calculation.
How do you split a tip between multiple people?
Divide the total bill plus tip by the number of people. If everyone ordered roughly the same amount, an even split works. For uneven orders, use an app like Forks to assign items to each person and calculate individual totals with tax and tip included.
How much should you tip for takeout?
For takeout orders, a 10-15% tip is appreciated but not always expected. If the restaurant prepared a complex order, went above and beyond with packaging, or you're a regular customer, tipping 15-20% is a kind gesture.
Is 15% still an acceptable tip?
While 15% was the standard for decades, the norm has shifted to 18-20% for sit-down restaurants in most US cities. A 15% tip is still acceptable for average service, but 20% is now considered the baseline for good service.