Tipping anxiety is real, and the tipping landscape has gotten more confusing — iPad prompts at counter service asking for 30%, delivery apps with default 25% options, screens that guilt-trip you. Here's the honest guide to what's actually expected.
US standards, 2026
- Sit-down restaurant — 18–20% of pre-tax. 15% is the acceptable floor for mediocre service.
- Counter service — 10% or the change in your pocket. 20% suggested by the iPad is not obligated.
- Bar — $1–2 per drink (simple pours), 15–20% for cocktails or ongoing tabs.
- Delivery driver — 15–20%, minimum $3–5.
- Barber / hairdresser — 15–20%.
- Taxi / rideshare — 10–20%, or round up.
- Hotel housekeeping — $2–5 per night.
- Delivery of appliances, takeout bags — $5–10 flat is customary.
International quick reference
- Canada — 15–20%, similar to US.
- UK — 10–12% at restaurants; check if "service charge" is already included.
- Western Europe — 5–10% is generous; service is usually included.
- Japan, S. Korea, China — don't tip. It can be considered rude.
- Australia, New Zealand — not expected; 10% for excellent service is generous.
- Middle East, India — 10% common at touristy places.
The moral layer
Restaurant servers in the US are paid well below minimum wage in many states — tips are their income, not a bonus. "Tipping culture" has flaws, but until the structural system changes, not tipping at sit-down service directly hurts the worker. If the service was genuinely bad, that's what 15% is for — it's below standard but not punitive.
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CALCULATE YOUR TIP.
Bill amount, tip percent, split between any number of people. Shareable URL for the group.
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