Should you tip on pre-tax or post-tax amount?

Etiquette dictates tipping on the pre-tax subtotal, although many terminal screens calculate suggestions on the grand total.

Is auto-gratuity included for large parties?

Most US venues automatically add an 18-20% auto-gratuity for parties of 6 or more. Always check your itemized receipt.

🇺🇸 North America • USD ($)

Tipping in United States: 2026 Etiquette, Rates & Customs

In the US, tipping is a fundamental part of the service economy. Frontline servers rely on tips for the majority of their income, making 18–22% standard etiquette.

Cultural Context & Etiquette

Failing to tip in America is considered a severe social faux pas. Even for mediocre service, 15% is expected, while 20%+ is standard for good service.

Sector Breakdown

Sit-Down Restaurants: 18% - 22% — 20% is the baseline for attentive service; 22–25% for fine dining.
Cafes & Fast Casual: $1 - $2 or 10-15% — Selecting $1-$2 or 15% on the counter screen is standard.
Bars & Nightclubs: $1 - $2 per drink — $1 per beer/wine, $2 per craft cocktail, or 20% of the bar tab.
Hotel Porters & Housekeeping: $2 - $5 per bag — $2-$5 per bag for bellhops, $3-$5 per night left on the desk for housekeeping.
Taxis & Rideshare: 15% - 20% — 15–20% selected via the rideshare app or taxi payment screen.

Cash vs Digital Tipping

The vast majority of dining transactions are cashless. QR code checkout and mobile payments are common in modern US dining.

Hospitality Business Operators in United States

In the US, QR tipping at the table removes terminal waits and saves time for both guests and staff.

Set Up Naponi QR Tipping Free →