Journal · Eating out
Service charge and GST in Singapore: the 10% and 9% maths, explained
What "++" means on a Singapore menu, why GST is charged on the service charge, and the 1.199 shortcut.
Menu prices in many Singapore restaurants are shown "++". The two plus signs are the service charge and GST, and they add almost 20% to what you see on the menu.
The order matters
The service charge comes first. GST is then charged on the food plus the service charge.
- Food and drinks: S$120.00
- Service charge 10%: S$12.00
- Subtotal: S$132.00
- GST 9% on S$132: S$11.88
- Total: S$143.88
That is the same as multiplying the menu total by 1.199. For four people sharing equally, each pays S$35.97.
The quick mental shortcut
Add 20% and take a little off. On S$120, 20% is S$24, giving S$144. The real total is S$143.88, so you are within a few cents.
Where the "++" does not apply
- Hawker centres and most coffee shops: prices usually include everything. What you see is what you pay.
- Many cafés and fast food chains: prices often already include GST, with no service charge.
- Restaurants marked "nett": the price on the menu is final.
If a receipt shows only GST and no service charge, multiply by 1.09 instead.
Splitting by item with ++ prices
If people ordered different amounts, apply the same 1.199 to each person's items. The charges are then shared in the right proportions, and the parts add up exactly to the bill.
Check the receipt
Rates and rules can change, and some places charge differently. Always use the lines printed on your receipt. If something looks odd, ask the staff. It is your right to understand the bill.
With Perpax
Perpax, coming soon from Goldmend Money, will add service charge and GST in one tap. Today, the Financce bill splitter does the same 10% and 9% maths.
General information, not financial or legal advice. Figures are examples. Check your receipt and official sources.
Next: Splitting the bill in Malaysia: service charge, tax and the mamak run