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How Much Should You Tip?

Tipping customs vary by country and service, but in the United States and Canada a tip of 15–20% is the standard for sit-down restaurant service. Here is a quick reference for common percentages:

Tip %On $50On $75On $100
10%$5.00$7.50$10.00
15%$7.50$11.25$15.00
18%$9.00$13.50$18.00
20%$10.00$15.00$20.00
25%$12.50$18.75$25.00

Quick Mental Math for 15% and 20%

You can estimate a tip without a calculator:

Tip: Many U.S. restaurants show suggested tips (often 18%, 20%, and 22%) at the bottom of the receipt. The 18% option is a good middle ground, but tip what feels fair for the service you received.

Who Do You Tip and How Much?

ServiceTypical Tip
Sit-down restaurant15–20%
Bar / bartender$1–2 per drink, or 15–20%
Food delivery15–20%
Haircut / salon15–20%
Taxi / rideshare10–15%
Hotel housekeeping$2–5 per night
Takeout (pick-up)0–10% (optional)

Frequently Asked Questions

Do I tip on the pre-tax or post-tax total?

Most people tip on the pre-tax amount, but tipping on the full bill (including tax) is common and generous. Either is acceptable; the difference is small.

Should I tip for takeout?

Tipping for takeout is optional. Many people leave 0–10% for carry-out, or nothing at all. A small tip is appreciated when staff have packed your order and done extra work.

What if service was poor?

You are never obligated to tip. A lower tip (or speaking to a manager) can be a fair response to genuinely poor service. Tips reward service, and tipping for bad service is not required.

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