Tipping rules vary by country, service type, and whether a service charge is already printed on the check. In the U.S. and Canada, sit-down dining still centers on 15–20% of the pre-tax food and drink subtotal—but delivery, counter service, and travel each have their own norms.

This guide covers standard percentages, when to tip more or less, international basics, and how to use Toolsle’s free tip calculator to split bills among friends.

Standard tipping percentages (U.S.)

Pre-tax vs post-tax: Many diners calculate tip on the subtotal before sales tax so the gratuity does not compound on tax.

How to calculate tip manually

tip amount = bill subtotal × (tip percent ÷ 100)
total = subtotal + tax + tip
per person = total ÷ number of diners

Example: $80 subtotal, 18% tip → $80 × 0.18 = $14.40 tip. Add tax separately if your jurisdiction taxes the meal.

Splitting the bill fairly

• Even split — divide total (including tip) by headcount
• Itemized — each person pays their items plus proportional tax/tip
• One payer — use the calculator to show each share before someone fronts the card

The percentage calculator helps when you need custom splits or weighted shares.

Tipping when traveling

In much of Europe, 10–15% may be optional if service is not included. Japan and South Korea often expect no tip. Resort areas in Mexico may accept USD tips at 10–20%. Always read the bill for service compris or built-in charges before adding more.

Common mistakes

• Tipping on the total after tax when your group agreed on pre-tax math
• Forgetting cash tips for housekeeping or porters
• Double-tipping when a service charge is already on the receipt
• Using U.S. norms abroad without checking local custom

Try the free tip calculator

Open the tip calculator, enter the bill amount, pick 10%, 15%, 18%, 20%, 25%, or a custom rate, and set the number of people to split. Results update as you type—no signup required.