Tip Calculator

Tip Calculator & US Tipping Etiquette Guide (2026)

Tipping is a fundamental part of American dining and service culture. Unlike many countries where service charges are included in the bill, the United States relies heavily on tips to compensate service workers fairly. Understanding proper tipping etiquette not only ensures you're treating service professionals with respect but also helps you budget accurately for meals and services. This guide covers everything you need to know about tipping in 2026.

Standard Tipping Rates in the US

Knowing the appropriate tip percentage ensures you're neither undertipping (which can be seen as rude) nor drastically overtipping (unless you want to be extra generous). Here are the standard tipping guidelines for 2026:

• 15-18% for Average Service: This is the baseline for acceptable restaurant service. If your server was attentive, friendly, and got your order correct, 15-18% is appropriate.
• 20% for Good Service: If your server went above and beyond—remembering special requests, checking in at the right times, or handling a large party smoothly—20% is the standard.
• 20-25% for Excellent Service: For truly exceptional service, such as navigating dietary restrictions, making great recommendations, or turning a special occasion into a memorable experience, consider tipping 20-25% or more.
• 10% or Less for Poor Service: While rare, if service was genuinely subpar (not due to kitchen delays), you can tip less. However, consider speaking with a manager about the issue rather than just leaving a low tip.

Remember, many servers earn minimum wage (or less in some states where tipped minimum wage applies) and rely on tips as their primary income. When in doubt, err on the side of generosity, especially if the issue wasn't your server's fault.

Should You Tip on Pre-Tax or Post-Tax Amount?

This is a common question, and the answer is: tipping etiquette suggests calculating tips on the pre-tax amount. Sales tax isn't part of the restaurant's revenue and therefore shouldn't factor into the server's tip.

For example, if your bill is $50.00 before tax and $54.50 after an 9% sales tax, you should calculate a 20% tip on $50.00 ($10.00) rather than on $54.50 ($10.90). While some people round up or use the post-tax amount for convenience, the pre-tax method is considered proper etiquette.

That said, many people use the total amount (with tax) for simplicity, especially when using our calculator's quick presets. Both approaches are acceptable, but knowing the traditional method helps you make informed decisions.

Tipping for Delivery vs. Sit-Down Dining

Tipping expectations differ slightly between delivery services and traditional restaurant dining:

• Restaurant Sit-Down Service: 15-20% is standard. Servers handle multiple tasks including taking orders, bringing food, refilling drinks, and managing multiple tables simultaneously. They typically earn a lower hourly wage and depend on tips.
• Food Delivery: 15-20% minimum, with a $3-5 minimum even on small orders. Delivery drivers use their own vehicles, pay for gas, and deal with weather and traffic. For long distances, bad weather, or large/complex orders, consider tipping 20-25%.
• Takeout/Pickup: 0-10% is typical since you're not receiving table service. However, 10% is appreciated if the restaurant packaged your order carefully or accommodated special requests.
• Bartenders: $1-2 per drink for simple orders, or 15-20% of the tab for cocktails or full bar service.

Our tip calculator makes it easy to calculate the exact amount and split bills fairly among friends. Whether you're dining out, ordering delivery, or just grabbing drinks, you'll always know the appropriate amount to tip.