How much to tip on $30
Multiply the bill by the tip rate as a decimal. On a $30.00 bill, 18% is $30.00 x 0.18 = $5.40. The table covers the common rates; 15% to 20% is standard for sit-down service in the US, 18% to 20% is typical in cities, and 22% to 25% is for outstanding service or large parties.
| Tip rate | Tip | Total with tip |
|---|---|---|
| 15% | $4.50 | $34.50 |
| 18% | $5.40 | $35.40 |
| 20% | $6.00 | $36.00 |
| 22% | $6.60 | $36.60 |
| 25% | $7.50 | $37.50 |
Splitting a $30.00 bill
Add the tip first, then divide by the number of people. Each share below includes the tip.
| Tip rate | 2 people | 3 people | 4 people |
|---|---|---|---|
| 15% | $17.25 | $11.50 | $8.63 |
| 18% | $17.70 | $11.80 | $8.85 |
| 20% | $18.00 | $12.00 | $9.00 |
| 22% | $18.30 | $12.20 | $9.15 |
| 25% | $18.75 | $12.50 | $9.38 |
Mental math for a $30.00 bill
Ten percent of $30.00 is $3.00: just move the decimal point one place to the left. From there, 20% is double ($6.00), 15% is 10% plus half of 10% ($3.00 + $1.50 = $4.50), and 5% is half of 10% ($1.50). Round to the nearest dollar if that is easier; a tip of $6.00 instead of $6.00 is well within the normal range.
Before or after tax?
Etiquette guides recommend tipping on the pre-tax subtotal. In practice, many people tip on the total, and the difference is small: at 8% sales tax, a 20% tip on the post-tax amount of a $30.00 pre-tax bill is $6.48 instead of $6.00, about $0.48 more. Check whether a service charge or gratuity has already been added, which is common for parties of six or more; in that case no extra tip is expected.
Nearby bill amounts
tip on $15, tip on $20, tip on $25, tip on $35, tip on $40, tip on $45. For any other amount or to round each share up to a whole dollar, use the tip calculator.