Can I add a service charge to QR table orders?
By the Menuthere editorial team · Last updated
Yes, in most countries, as long as guests see it before they pay. Show it as optional so guests can remove it, or build it into your prices. In India, adding a service charge by default is not allowed.
- Show the rate on the menu and as its own line at checkout, never only on the final bill.
- UK: an optional service charge is outside the scope of VAT, and all of it must go to staff.
- UK: a compulsory charge must be in the menu price and takes the meal's VAT rate.
- India: the 2022 guidelines say no automatic or default service charge, and no forcing it.
Add an optional service charge to table orders
Menuthere adds a percentage service charge to dine-in QR orders, marked optional with a Remove button, and can offer tips too. Not in India.
Next questions
Sources (5)
- VAT guide (VAT Notice 700), section 8.14 service charges and tips, HMRC (GOV.UK), read 20 Oct 2026
- Price transparency (CMA209), Competition and Markets Authority (GOV.UK), read 20 Oct 2026
- Tips at work, GOV.UK, read 20 Oct 2026
- DD News (Prasar Bharati) help page, DD News (Prasar Bharati), 20 Jul 2026
- Tips and service charge, Menuthere Docs, updated 20 Oct 2026