Tip calculator
Try our tip calculator below to make the math easier.
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How much do you tip at a restaurant?
The standard tip for a restaurant server is 15% to 20%, based on the experience, according to Elaine Swann, lifestyle and etiquette expert and founder of the Swann School of Protocol. In higher-cost areas, 20% is more the norm, Swann says. And in all cases, people tend to tip more for exemplary service.
That also applies for those bringing dinner to you, such as a pizza delivery.
A 10% tip may suffice in some situations, and it’s easy to calculate. Think picking up a carryout order or a cup of coffee. Remember, 10% of $10 is $1. Double it to $2 for 20% of $10.
Do you tip before or after tax (according to Reddit)?
We sifted through Reddit forums to get a pulse check on how users feel about pre-tax vs. post-tax gratuities. We used an AI tool to help analyze and summarize the feedback. People post anonymously, so we cannot confirm their individual experiences or circumstances.
On Reddit, users overwhelmingly vote for tipping before tax. (You’re welcome.)
That said, Redditors agree that if a restaurant discounts your bill — you get a free dessert, for instance, or they comp a meal for you — tip on the pre-tax total before the discount.
How much do you tip for other services?
For many other service providers, 15% to 20% is a standard tip too. For example, that’s how much to tip a hairdresser and how much to tip a massage therapist if you can, Swann says.
You can also look for a cue in the presets on the bill or on the payment screen of the point-of-sale system.
» LEARN: How much to tip just about everyone
Unhappy with the service you received? Gently voice your concerns with the service provider and look for ways to resolve the issue, Swann says. Tipping less than 15% is fine in those cases, but still aim to give some gratuity. Keep in mind that the minimum wage for tipped employees is significantly lower than regular minimum wage, with the understanding that tipping makes up the difference.
