How to split the tip fairly
How to split a tip fairly among friends: proportional vs equal tipping, what to tip on, and a worked example.
Tip is where friendly splits go sideways. Someone wants 15%, someone wants 22%, and someone ordered three cocktails but wants to split the tip evenly. Here's how to keep it fair.
Agree on the rate first
Pick one rate for the table. In the US, 18 to 20% is standard for sit-down service. Check whether a service charge is already included.
Proportional vs equal
Proportional means each person tips on what they ordered, so a $40 order tips twice as much as a $20 one. It's the fairest default. Equal means everyone pays the same tip, which works when orders are similar.
Example
On the $60.00 subtotal with a $9.00 tip (15%), proportional tipping gives Maya $2.83, Jordan $3.65 and Sam $2.52, which adds up to $9.00. An even split would be $3.00 each, so Sam would subsidize Jordan.
Pre-tax or post-tax?
Tipping on the pre-tax subtotal is common and perfectly polite. If there's a discount or coupon, many people tip on the original amount, since the server did the same work.
FAQ
Is it fairer to split the tip evenly or proportionally?
Proportionally, so each person tips on what they ordered. Even splits are fine when orders are similar.
Should you tip before or after tax?
Tipping on the pre-tax subtotal is standard and polite.
Should I tip on the full amount if I used a coupon?
Many people do, since the service was the same regardless of the discount.