💰Tip Calculator

Standard Tipping Percentages in Canada

In Canada, a tip of 15% to 20% on the pre-tax bill is considered standard for good service in sit-down restaurants. While tipping is technically voluntary, it is a significant part of a server's income. Restaurants Canada notes that tipping reflects the quality of the experience. Our calculator allows you to quickly see the CAD amount for these common percentages, helping you show appreciation for great service.

Restaurants Canada

Tipping on Pre-Tax vs. Total Bill

Conventionally, Canadians tip on the pre-tax amount of the bill. However, many digital payment terminals calculate the tip based on the final total (including GST/HST). This can result in 'tipping on the tax.' Use our tool to calculate the tip on the subtotal, which is the traditional Canadian approach, ensuring you are providing a fair gratuity without overpaying.

Financial Consumer Agency of Canada (FCAC)

Tipping for Delivery and Other Services

For food delivery (UberEats, DoorDash) or personal services like haircuts, a tip of 10% to 15% is customary in Canada. During extreme weather conditions—common in the Canadian winter—it is polite to tip a little extra. Statistics Canada reports that service industry workers rely on these gratuities. This calculator helps you manage these smaller, frequent tips.

Statistics Canada – Service Industry Trends

Is tipping mandatory in Canada?

Tipping is not legally mandatory in Canada, but it is deeply ingrained in the social fabric. In most provinces, service staff may be paid a lower minimum wage, making tips a vital part of their livelihood. If you are extremely dissatisfied with the service, you can choose not to tip, but it is common practice to provide at least 15% for acceptable service.

What is 'Automatic Gratuity' in Canada?

Many Canadian restaurants automatically add a service charge (usually 15-18%) for large groups (typically 6 or 8 people or more). The Competition Bureau Canada requires that these mandatory charges be clearly disclosed. Always check your bill before adding an extra tip to ensure you aren't double-tipping on a large group dinner in Canada.

How much should I tip at a Canadian cafe?

At counter-service cafes in Canada, tipping is optional. You might see a tip jar or a prompt on the screen. A small gesture of $1 or rounding up to the nearest dollar is appreciated but not expected for a simple coffee to-go. For complex orders or exceptional service, 5-10% is a friendly way to acknowledge the staff's effort in the Canadian cafe scene.