How to split a bill and work out the tip

Multiply the bill by the tip percentage. A 120 bill with an 18% tip means 120 × 0.18 = 21.60 in tips, so the total is 141.60.

A quick mental trick: find 10% by moving the decimal point, then add half of that for 15% or double it for 20%.

Tipping norms differ widely. In the United States 15–20% is expected in restaurants, while in many countries service is already included in the bill or a small round-up is enough. Check the bill for a service charge before adding a tip.

Some people tip on the pre-tax amount, others on the total. Either is acceptable; just be consistent.

Divide the total including the tip by the number of people. 141.60 shared between 4 people is 35.40 each.

If someone ordered much less, it is fairer to split by what each person ordered and share only the tip and shared dishes evenly.

Calculators round to the cent, but real payments often round up. Agree a round figure per person, or let the tip absorb the difference.

Our tip calculator shows the tip, the total and each person's share so you can decide quickly.