Calculate tips, split the bill, and compare gratuity percentages instantly
Quick Answer:In 2026, the standard tip at US restaurants is 18-20% of the pre-tax bill. For a $50 dinner, a 20% tip equals $10 for a total of $60. When splitting between 4 people, that's $15 per person.
Total Per Person
Calculating... per person
Tip Amount
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Total (Bill + Tip)
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Tip Per Person
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Tip Base (Pre-Tax)
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15%
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18%
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20%
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25%
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Tipping norms in the US have shifted upward in recent years. In 2026, 20% is the new baseline for sit-down restaurants with full table service. For quick-service restaurants with counter ordering, 10-15% is appreciated but not expected. When using digital payment screens that suggest 20-30%, remember that you can always select "custom" to enter your preferred amount. For delivery drivers, $5 or 15-20% (whichever is greater) is standard.
In 2026, the standard tip at US restaurants is 18-20% of the pre-tax bill for table service. For exceptional service, 25% or more is appropriate. For counter service or takeout, 10-15% is common but not obligatory. Always calculate your tip on the pre-tax subtotal, not the total that includes sales tax.
Etiquette experts recommend tipping on the pre-tax amount. Sales tax goes to the government, not the restaurant, so it should not inflate the tip base. For example, on a $100 meal with $8 tax, a 20% tip should be $20 (based on $100), not $21.60 (based on $108). This calculator lets you exclude tax from the tip calculation.
To split evenly: add the tip to the total bill, then divide by the number of people. For a $120 bill with 20% tip ($24), the total is $144. Split 4 ways, each person pays $36. If someone had a more expensive meal, consider splitting proportionally instead. This calculator handles the math for even splits automatically.