Tronc & Tips Calculator — split tips fairly
Enter tonight's tips and who worked. Split by hours worked, equally, or by role points, then copy the result for your records. Every penny is accounted for.
| Name | Hours | Points | Share |
|---|
Pennies are balanced automatically so the shares always add up to exactly the total. This tool doesn't store anything; it all runs in your browser.
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ShiftBoss splits tronc automatically from your rota and clock-ins, keeps the records for you, and gives staff a clear view of what they earned. Built in the UK for pubs, restaurants & cafés.
Try ShiftBoss free →How to split tips fairly (UK guide)
1. By hours worked (recommended)
Each person's share = total tips × their hours ÷ everyone's hours. Someone who worked 8 hours gets twice as much as someone who worked 4. It's simple to explain, easy to check, and it's what most UK restaurants and pubs use.
2. Equal split
Everyone on the shift gets the same amount. Good for short events where everyone worked the full service, but it feels unfair when hours differ a lot.
3. Hours × role points
Each role gets a weighting, for example front of house 1.0, bar 1.0, kitchen 0.8, and shares are calculated on hours × points. Useful when you want to include kitchen staff but reflect different roles. Agree the points with your team and write them down.
What the law says: the Tipping Act
Since 1 October 2024, the Employment (Allocation of Tips) Act 2023 applies to employers in Great Britain. In plain English:
- 100% of tips go to workers. Tips, gratuities and service charges must be passed on in full, with no deductions other than tax where it applies.
- Split them fairly. Your method must be fair and consistent, following the statutory Code of Practice.
- Have a written tipping policy and make it available to your staff.
- Pay on time: no later than the end of the month after the customer paid.
- Keep records for 3 years. Workers can ask to see information about tips they received.
New for 2026: reforms in the Employment Rights Act 2025 (expected to start from October 2026) add a duty to consult your workers when you create or change your tipping policy, and to review the policy at least every three years. Check GOV.UK for the latest position.
Tips vs tronc: what's the difference?
A tronc is a pooled tips scheme. When it's run independently by a troncmaster (not the employer), payments are generally free of National Insurance, though income tax still goes through PAYE. If the employer decides who gets what, NI usually applies. Rules depend on your setup, so check HMRC's guidance or speak to your accountant.
FAQ
What is the fairest way to split tips?
Most UK venues split by hours worked. Whatever you choose, it must be fair, consistent and written in your tipping policy, and since 2026 you should consult staff when you set or change it.
Can the business keep part of the tips?
No. Since 1 October 2024 all tips, gratuities and service charges must be passed to workers in full (tax aside).
Should managers get a share?
They can if they work the service, as long as the method is fair and in your policy. Owners who aren't workers generally shouldn't take a share.
Do kitchen staff get tips?
Often yes, especially for service charges. Many venues use role points (for example kitchen 0.8) so back of house is included fairly.
When do tips have to be paid?
No later than the end of the month after the month the customer paid them.
This page is general information, not legal or tax advice.