How to Split a Bill Fairly

Splitting a restaurant check sounds simple, but it gets complicated quickly when people order different amounts, drinks are involved, or the group size is uneven.

The Even Split

Per Person = (Bill + Tip) / Number of People

The simplest approach. Works best when everyone ordered roughly the same amount. Calculate the tip on the full pre-tax total first, then divide everything evenly.

Tips for Group Dining

• Always tip on the pre-tax subtotal, not the after-tax total
• For large groups (6+), many restaurants automatically add 18-20% gratuity -- check your receipt before adding more
• If one person did not drink and others had cocktails, it is fair to split food evenly and have drinkers cover their own bar tab
• Venmo and similar apps have made it easier to settle up after the fact, but someone still has to do the math

The Rounding-Up Trick

If the per-person amount comes to something awkward like $23.47, round up to $24 or $25. The extra few dollars per person adds up to a slightly better tip, and nobody has to dig for exact change.