How to calculate a tip
Updated on June 18, 2026 · by Rafael Rossi
A tip is a percentage of the bill, added to the total. Easy to calculate — and easy to split.
How to calculate
tip = bill × (percent ÷ 100)
total = bill + tip
To split, divide the total (tip included) by the number of people.
Step-by-step example
A $50 bill, 18% tip, 4 people:
- Tip: 50 × 0.18 = $9
- Total: $59
- Per person: 59 ÷ 4 ≈ $14.75
How much to tip, by country
- US: 15%–20% is expected at restaurants — tips are a large part of a server's income.
- Brazil: a 10% service charge is usually already on the bill and is optional.
- Europe: varies; service is often included and you just round up.
Mental shortcut
For 10%, move the decimal one place. For 15%, add 10% plus half of it. For 20%, double the 10%.
FAQ
Pre-tax or post-tax total? It's customary to tip on the pre-tax amount, but it's up to you.
Is a service charge the same as a tip? A mandatory service charge is added by the venue; a tip is discretionary and goes to the staff.