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Tip Calculator
The tip, the sales tax and what each person pays, for any province.
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How to tip in Canada
In Canadian restaurants 15% to 20% of the bill before tax is standard, with 18% common in big cities. Card machines often suggest tips on the total after tax, which adds 13% to 15% more to the tip in HST provinces; you can switch the calculator to see the difference.
Examples:
- 15% on $80 before tax: $12.00
- 18% on $80 before tax: $14.40
- 20% on $80 before tax: $16.00
Sales tax on restaurant meals is GST plus the provincial part (13% HST in Ontario). BC charges only 5% GST on restaurant food. Rates for everything else: GST/HST calculator. Shopping a sale? Try the discount calculator.
Frequently asked questions
Should I tip before or after tax in Canada?
Before tax is the traditional rule, and most etiquette guides say so. Tipping on the after-tax total, as card machines often suggest, adds about 13% to 15% to your tip in HST provinces.
How much is an 18% tip on $80?
$14.40 on the bill before tax. With 13% Ontario HST the total comes to $104.80.
What is a normal tip in Canada?
15% to 20% at sit-down restaurants, about 10% to 15% for takeout or delivery drivers, and 15% to 20% for hairdressers and taxis.
Is there tax on restaurant food in BC?
Only the 5% GST. BC's 7% PST doesn't apply to restaurant food, but alcohol has 10% PST.
Keep planning your taxes
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