Standard Tipping Guidelines (USA)
Restaurants
15-20% for good service
20-25% for excellent service
10-15% for average service
Food Delivery
15-20% or $3-5 minimum
Consider weather and distance
Higher for large orders
Bars & Coffee
$1-2 per drink at bars
15-20% for table service
$1-2 or round up for coffee
Other Services
Hairdresser: 15-20%
Taxi/Rideshare: 15-20%
Hotel housekeeping: $2-5/night
Tipping Etiquette Tips
- Pre-tax calculation - technically, tips should be calculated on the pre-tax bill amount
- Large groups - many restaurants add 18-20% gratuity automatically for groups of 6+
- Poor service - if service was truly poor, speak with a manager rather than leaving no tip
- Counter service - tipping is optional but appreciated, typically $1-2 or 10-15%
Quick mental math: To calculate 20%, move the decimal point one place left (10%), then double it. For 15%, calculate 10% and add half of that.
International Tipping
Tipping customs vary significantly around the world. In many European countries, service charges are often included in the bill. In Japan, tipping can actually be considered rude. Always research local customs when traveling abroad.