Figure out how much to tip and split the bill fairly
Tip on the pre-tax amount, not the total with tax. If you had great service, round up — it goes a long way.
In the US, the standard is 15-20% for sit-down service. 15% is acceptable for average service, 18-20% for good service, and 25%+ for exceptional service. This is because servers in the US typically earn $2.13/hour (the tipped minimum wage) and rely on tips to make a living. Tipping isn't optional here — it's part of how the system works. If you can't afford the tip, get takeout instead.
Tip on the pre-tax amount, not after tax. The server didn't set the tax rate, so they shouldn't get a percentage of it. If your bill is $50 plus $4 tax, you calculate tip on $50. Some people tip on the post-tax total, but that's overpaying by a few extra dollars — it's up to you, but pre-tax is the standard practice.
For takeout or delivery, 10% is standard for orders under $20, 15% for larger orders. If it's delivery, add a little extra if the weather is bad or they carried heavy bags. Many people tip $2-5 flat for small delivery orders. You don't need to tip 20% for takeout — the server didn't wait on your table.
No tipping needed at fast food places like McDonald's or Chipotle. At coffee shops (Starbucks, local cafes), a $1 in the tip jar is nice but not expected. At sit-down coffee shops with table service, 15% is appropriate. The tip prompts on tablet POS systems are designed to guilt-trip you into tipping — you're not a bad person for picking "no tip" at a counter-service place.
Hairdresser: 15-20% of the service (tip the assistant too if there is one). Uber/Lyft: 15-20%, especially if they helped with bags or drove safely in bad traffic. Hotel housekeeping: $2-5 per night, left daily with a note. Bartenders: $1-2 per drink, or 15-20% of the tab. Taxi: 15-20%. Valet: $2-5 when you get your car back.
This is tricky. Bad service because the server was inattentive or rude? You can lower the tip to 10% or even 0% — but be aware that in the US, servers depend on tips to pay rent. Bad service because the kitchen messed up the order? That's not the server's fault. The general rule: tip based on the service you received, not the food quality. If you're really unhappy, talk to the manager before reducing the tip — they may comp something and you can still tip the server appropriately.
Disclaimer: This calculator is for convenience only. Tipping customs vary by region and establishment. When in doubt, 20% is always safe.