Should You Tip Before or After Tax? Etiquette Experts Weigh In
Investigating the long-standing debate on whether to calculate tips on the pre-tax food subtotal or the post-tax final bill.
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Almost every receipt presents two numbers: the Subtotal (food and drinks alone) and the Total (including state and local sales tax). On which number should your tip be based?
Official Etiquette: Tip on the Pre-Tax Subtotal
The Emily Post Institute and dining etiquette experts agree: gratuity is a reward for personal service, not for government sales taxes. You should calculate your 18% to 20% on the food and beverage subtotal.
Does It Make a Big Difference?
On an $80 meal in a city with an 8.5% sales tax ($6.80 tax): - 20% on pre-tax ($80): $16.00 tip - 20% on post-tax ($86.80): $17.36 tip Difference: $1.36. While pre-tax is technically correct, many diners tip on the post-tax total for quick convenience.
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