💰Tip Calculator

Service Charge vs. Voluntary Tipping

In India, many restaurants add a 'Service Charge' (usually 5-10%) to the bill. The Department of Consumer Affairs has clarified that this charge is voluntary and cannot be forced. However, if a service charge is already included, you are not expected to leave an additional tip. If it is not included, a tip of 7-10% is customary. Our tool helps you calculate this percentage on the pre-tax subtotal for accuracy.

Department of Consumer Affairs – India

Tipping Culture for Home Delivery

With the rise of apps like Zomato and Swiggy, tipping delivery partners has become standard. A tip of ₹20 to ₹50 is generally appreciated. During the extreme heat of the Indian summer or heavy monsoons, many choose to tip more. This calculator helps you add these small but significant amounts to your order total, ensuring a fair split among friends sharing a meal.

Ministry of Tourism – Incredible India

Tipping for Personal Services in India

In salons, spas, or for hotel staff, small tips in cash are the norm. For a haircut, ₹50-₹100 is standard, while ₹20-₹50 is common for hotel help. The Ministry of Labour notes that these tips often provide essential support for staff in the service sector. Our tool allows you to quickly calculate a percentage or a fixed amount to keep your INR change ready.

Ministry of Labour and Employment

Is it mandatory to pay the service charge in India?

No. According to the latest guidelines from the CCPA, no restaurant can add service charge automatically to the bill. It is a 'voluntary' tip. If you find it on your bill and are unhappy with the service, you can ask for it to be removed. Knowing this helps you use our calculator to decide your own tip amount based on your experience.

Should I tip on the total bill including GST?

Technically, tips should be calculated on the base amount before GST. In India, GST on restaurants is either 5% or 18%. Tipping on the final total means you are also 'tipping the government.' Our calculator allows you to input the subtotal separately to find a fair INR tip amount that goes entirely to the person who served you.

What is the tipping etiquette for taxis and autos?

For app-based cabs (Uber, Ola), tipping is optional and can be done through the app. For local auto-rickshaws, 'rounding up' the fare (e.g., paying ₹100 for a ₹93 fare) is common and appreciated. This tool helps you quickly see the 'rounded' values so you can manage your cash payments efficiently during your Indian urban commute.