How this calculator works
Tax is added to the subtotal at your local rate. The tip is worked out on the pre-tax amount (the usual etiquette) or on the full amount if you prefer, then everything is split evenly. The table shows other common tip levels per person.
- Tax = bill before tax × sales tax %.
- Tip = bill before tax × tip % (or bill including tax × tip %, if you choose to tip on the full amount).
- Each person pays = (bill before tax + tax + tip) ÷ people.
Worked example
With these inputs: bill before tax $86.4; sales tax 8.25%; tip 18%; tip on Amount before tax; people splitting 3.
The result is each person pays $36.36, with tax $7.13 and tip $15.55.
Tip on the amount before or after tax?
The usual US etiquette is to tip on the pre-tax subtotal, because the tax goes to the state, not to the server. Tipping on the full amount is a small, generous rounding-up; the calculator does either. On an $86.40 bill with 8.25% tax, the difference at 18% is about $1.28.
Many card terminals suggest tips calculated on the total including tax, and some add a service charge for large groups. Check the bill for an automatic gratuity before adding a tip on top.
Splitting it fairly
An even split is fastest and fair when everyone ordered about the same. If one person ordered much more, split the bill by what each ordered first, then apply the tax and tip percentages to each share. For a household that splits recurring bills by income rather than evenly, the Split Bill Calculator handles that.
Sales tax on restaurant meals is set by your state, county and city, and some places add a separate meals tax, so use the rate printed on the receipt.
Sources
Frequently asked questions
How do I calculate a restaurant bill with tax and tip?
Add tax to the subtotal, then add the tip. In the example — $86.40 before tax, 8.25% tax, 18% tip on the pre-tax amount, split three ways — tax is $7.13, the tip $15.55, the total $109.08, and each person pays $36.36.
How much should I tip at a restaurant?
In the US, 15% to 20% of the pre-tax bill is typical for table service, with more for exceptional service. The table under the result shows each level per person.
Do you tip on tax?
Traditionally no — the tip is on the food and drink, not the tax. Tipping on the total is a slightly more generous choice, and the calculator supports both.
How do I split a bill with different amounts?
Work out each person's items, then apply the same tax and tip percentages to each share. For an even split, enter the number of people and the calculator divides everything.
Where do I find the sales tax rate?
On the receipt, which usually shows the tax as a separate line. Divide the tax amount by the pre-tax subtotal to get the rate.