Few things make a good meal awkward faster than the bill arriving and nobody knowing how to split it. A little structure takes the stress away. Here are four ways to divide a bill, and when each one makes sense.
Method 1: Split it equally
Add the tip to the bill and divide by the number of people. It is quick and works well when everyone ordered a similar amount. Example: a bill of 120 with a 15% tip is 138. Between four people, each pays 34.50.
Method 2: Itemise it
Each person pays for what they ordered, plus a share of tax and tip based on their own total. This is the fairest method when orders were very different, for example when one person had a starter, main and dessert while another only had a drink. It takes a few minutes, but nobody feels they overpaid.
Method 3: Share the shared, itemise the rest
Split the shared dishes equally, then add each person's individual drinks and extras. It is a good compromise for sharing-plate meals and avoids arguing over who ate how much of the nachos.
Method 4: Take turns
With regular friends, one person pays and another pays next time. It works only when everyone really does take turns and it is easy to lose track, so use it for close friends.
Handling the tip
- Check first whether a service charge has already been added to the bill.
- Tip on the bill before tax if that is your habit, or on the total. Just agree on one.
- Tipping customs vary by country. In some places it is expected, in others it is optional.
Practical tips
- Decide the method before ordering, not when the bill arrives.
- Round each share up to a whole number if you are paying cash.
- For a trip with many shared costs, keep a running list and settle up once at the end.
- If someone is on a tight budget, it is kind to suggest the equal split only when the orders were similar.
Try the numbers in our free Tip & Bill Splitter. It shows the tip, total and what each person pays, with an option to round up each share. If you are checking a sale price instead, the Discount Calculator can help.
Frequently asked questions
Is it rude to ask for separate bills?
Not at all. Asking the server at the start of the meal is polite and common in many places.
What if someone leaves early?
Ask them to pay their share, with a bit extra for the tip, before they go.
This guide is for general information only. See our disclaimer.