Tipping FAQ
Get answers to the most common questions about tipping, gratuity, and service etiquette. Learn how much to tip, when to tip, and tipping customs around the world.
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Frequently Asked Questions
To calculate a 20% tip, multiply your bill by 0.20 (or 20%). For example, on a $50 bill: $50 × 0.20 = $10 tip. A quick mental trick: move the decimal one place left ($50 becomes $5), then double it ($5 × 2 = $10). Use TipWhiz for instant calculations!
It's generally recommended to tip before tax (on the pre-tax subtotal). This is the professional standard in the restaurant industry. Tipping on the pre-tax amount ensures you're tipping on the actual cost of service, not on government taxes. TipWhiz defaults to pre-tax calculations.
For excellent service at a restaurant, 20-25% is appropriate. Some customers go up to 30% for truly exceptional experiences. For other services: haircuts (20-25%), hotel housekeeping ($3-5/day), food delivery (20% or $5 minimum, whichever is higher).
Tip delivery drivers 15-20% of your order total, with a minimum of $5. For bad weather, large orders, or long distances, consider tipping 20-25%. App-based services often show suggested tip amounts, but feel free to adjust based on service quality.
The standard tip for a haircut is 15-20% of the service cost. For exceptional service or complex styling, tip 20-25%. If your stylist is also the salon owner, tipping is still appreciated but sometimes considered optional.
Tipping on takeout is optional but appreciated. A good rule: 10% for takeout (versus 15-20% for dine-in). If restaurant staff went above and beyond with packaging, special requests, or service, consider tipping 15%. For delivery orders, always tip the driver separately.
When splitting a bill, calculate the total tip first (e.g., 20% of the total bill), then divide it equally among all people. TipWhiz has a built-in bill splitting feature: enter the number of people, and it automatically calculates each person's share including their portion of the tip.
Tipping is not legally mandatory in the US, but it's a strong cultural expectation and crucial for service workers whose base wages are often below minimum wage (as low as $2.13/hour for tipped employees). In restaurants, 15-20% is the standard. Not tipping can be seen as extremely rude unless service was truly poor.
15% is considered adequate for satisfactory service, 18% is good for above-average service, and 20% is the standard for good to excellent service. On a $100 bill: 15% = $15, 18% = $18, 20% = $20. Many restaurants now suggest 20% as the baseline due to rising costs and inflation.
Tipping at coffee shops is appreciated but not obligatory like restaurants. For counter service: $1-2 per drink or 10-15% for larger orders. If you're a regular, tipping helps build rapport. For table service at a café, use standard restaurant tipping (15-20%).
Tip hotel housekeeping $3-5 per night, left daily (not at the end of your stay, as staff rotates). For luxury hotels or exceptional service, tip $5-10 per night. Leave the tip in an envelope marked 'Housekeeping' with a thank you note on your pillow or desk.
Tip bartenders $1-2 per drink for beer, wine, or simple cocktails. For craft cocktails or complex drinks, tip 15-20% of your total tab. If running a tab, 20% at the end is standard. For exceptional service or busy nights, consider tipping 25%.
Yes, you should tip on the full bill including alcohol. The 15-20% tip applies to your entire check (food + drinks + alcohol). Servers work to provide drink service just like food service. However, if you only ordered drinks at the bar, follow bartender tipping guidelines ($1-2 per drink or 20% of the tab).
Even for poor service, consider leaving 10% and speaking to a manager about the issues. Leaving no tip should be reserved for truly egregious situations (rudeness, ignored requests, extremely long waits without explanation). Remember: bad service might be due to kitchen issues, understaffing, or management problems beyond the server's control.
For groups of 6+ people, many restaurants automatically add an 18-20% gratuity (check your receipt). If no automatic gratuity is added, tip 20% minimum for large groups, as they require significantly more work. Use TipWhiz to split the bill and tip evenly among all group members.
Tip etiquette suggests tipping on the original (pre-discount) price. Your server provided the same level of service regardless of your coupon or discount. If you got 50% off a $100 meal, tip on the $100 (e.g., $20 for 20%), not on the $50 you paid.
Yes, tip at buffets, though slightly less than full service. Tip 10% for someone who only brings drinks and clears plates. If the server brings special items, provides exceptional service, or handles large groups, tip 15%. Even though you serve yourself, staff are still working to support your dining experience.
Tip valet attendants $2-5 when they return your car (not when you drop it off). $2-3 is standard, $5 for luxury hotels or exceptional service (fast service, help with bags, bad weather). In major cities or upscale establishments, $5-10 may be expected.
Tip rideshare and taxi drivers 15-20% of the fare. For short rides, a $2-3 minimum is appropriate. Tip more (20-25%) for help with luggage, excellent conversation, or navigating difficult routes. You can tip cash or through the app, though app tipping is becoming the standard.
Yes, tipping varies dramatically by country. In Japan and South Korea, tipping can be seen as insulting. In many European countries, service is included in the bill (though rounding up 5-10% is appreciated). In Canada, Australia, and New Zealand, tipping expectations are similar to the US but typically 10-15%. Always research local customs before traveling.
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