How much should you tip in Canada?
At a restaurant in Canada, the norm is to tip 15% to 20% of the pre-tax amount. 15% is still the baseline for decent service, while 18% to 20% has become common for good service. Payment terminals often suggest 18%, 20% and 25%, but you're never required to pick one of those options.
Should you tip before or after tax?
The tip is traditionally calculated on the pre-tax subtotal. Many terminals calculate it on the tax-included amount instead, which inflates the tip by 13% to 15% depending on the province. On a $100 bill in Ontario, 18% before tax is $18.00, versus $20.34 if calculated after HST.
Tip = pre-tax subtotal × percentage
Total = subtotal + tax + tip
Total = subtotal + tax + tip
Tipping by service
| Service | Typical tip |
|---|---|
| Sit-down restaurant | 15% to 20% |
| Bar | $1 to $2 per drink, or 15% |
| Food delivery | 10% to 15%, at least $3 to $5 |
| Hair salon, spa | 15% to 20% |
| Taxi | 10% to 15% |
| Counter service, takeout coffee | Optional |
Tip examples
| Subtotal | 15% | 18% | 20% |
|---|---|---|---|
| $20.00 | $3.00 | $3.60 | $4.00 |
| $30.00 | $4.50 | $5.40 | $6.00 |
| $40.00 | $6.00 | $7.20 | $8.00 |
| $50.00 | $7.50 | $9.00 | $10.00 |
| $75.00 | $11.25 | $13.50 | $15.00 |
| $100.00 | $15.00 | $18.00 | $20.00 |
| $150.00 | $22.50 | $27.00 | $30.00 |
| $200.00 | $30.00 | $36.00 | $40.00 |