Customer was shown a 15% tip worth over $13 on an $80 restaurant bill — a little math revealed something frustrating
The idea of pre-assigned tips is already annoying for a majority of customers, and somehow, restaurants are pulling different tricks when it comes to tipping and getting away with it. One Reddit user who goes by u/TheStorytellerTX shared a post on January 24, 2026, calling out an eatery for one such act. Later reported by AOL on July 26, 2026, it was revealed that the customer received a bill worth $80.68 and was given options for gratuity, starting from 15%. After selecting the first suggestion, the amount added was displayed. To their surprise, a little math unveiled something worrisome.
The gratuity suggestions started at 15% and went up to 18%, 20%, and 25%. They picked the first slot and were given a breakdown of their check. As per their bill and math, they noted that 15% pre-tax should be around $11.18. After counting any other charges and tax, 15% should still be $12.10. To the customer’s surprise, the outlet charged them $13.45 as an additional tip. “How are they even getting $13.45 as the 15%?” they asked. The diner had no fair explanation for this query. Yet, they explained that they chose to give a $14 gratuity because their server was great.
Readers took to the comments section to share their opinions. u/goldenpleaser said, “This has been a trend, some places are just randomly adding a dollar or two hoping people wouldn't notice. Not sure how this is legal.” u/GloriaChin added, “The fact that their default suggested tip is calculated after tax is so unethical.” u/DragonWithin emphasized, “This is why I hate when they don't have a fully shown receipt itemizing each entry, cost, etc.”
According to Remitly, 63% of people have a negative perception of tipping, largely due to changing tipping practices and increasing expectations in recent years. While many said they believe that anywhere between 18% and 22% is ideal for tipping at sit-down restaurants, after noticing discrepancies in calculations, it's only fair that customers are getting upset. The 18%-22% gratuity range is generally considered appropriate when the tip is calculated before tax. In the Reddit user's case, the suggested tip was calculated after tax and was still higher than what it should have been. It’s only obvious that the diner feels cheated and changes their mind about gratuity altogether.