How to use the group dinner budget
Enter budget per person, number of people, sales tax (%), and tip on food (%). Choose the currency for your inputs and read the result as you change the values.
How it works and formula
Food budget = people × budget per person ÷ (1 + tax rate + tip rate).
Worked example
| Budget per person | 35 |
|---|---|
| Number of people | 4 |
| Sales tax (%) | 8 |
| Tip on food (%) | 20 |
Result
Group food budget $109.38
Try a second calculation
Start with the USD worked example above and change only number of people to 6. Select Calculate. Your result should read:
Group food budget $164.06
Then enter 2 in the same field. Compare the result with the first scenario row. Holding every other input steady lets you see exactly how this one change affects the calculation.
Choosing your inputs
Start with the maximum each guest wants to spend, including tax and tip. Decide who is paying before entering the group size. If the group is treating a guest, count the paying diners when calculating the cash available and remember that the food budget must cover everyone’s orders.
How to interpret the result
Use the result as the ceiling for the group’s menu subtotal. Divide that amount by everyone who is eating if you want a rough ordering allowance. Reserve money for fixed room charges, delivery, or extras before entering the per-person budget.
Frequently asked questions
Does the tip apply to tax?
Both percentages apply to the food amount. Reserve a separate allowance for any fixed service or booking charge.