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Prices / GST / Service charge

How Singapore prices work: GST, service charge, “++”, tipping, payments

Newcomers often get surprised at checkout: a menu price looks fine, but the final bill is noticeably higher. This page explains GST, service charge, “++”, and a safe payment setup you can rely on (2026-05).

30-second scan (avoid the common misunderstandings)

  • GST is Singapore’s consumption tax; the prevailing rate is 9% (verify via IRAS).
  • In restaurants/hotels, “++” usually means the displayed price excludes service charge and GST.
  • F&B and hotels that impose a service charge may display GST-exclusive prices, but must clearly state prices are subject to GST and service charge.
  • PayNow/SGQR is common, but you may not be able to use it before you have a local account—carry a card and a small cash backup.

3 small habits that reduce money friction

  • Ask once: are the displayed prices inclusive of GST/service charge? (especially on first visits).
  • Keep a photo of the menu/price list + your receipt for splitting, reimbursement, or disputes.
  • For monthly budgeting, use a fast estimate for “++” meals (≈ ×1.20), then calibrate with real bills.

How “++” adds up (use a verifiable formula)

Don’t guess. Write it down. Service charge is set by the business (10% is common, but check your menu/bill).

Step Example
Menu price S$20.00
+ Service charge (example: 10%) S$20 × 1.10 = S$22.00
+ GST (prevailing 9%) S$22.00 × 1.09 = S$23.98
Final bill (example) ≈ S$24.00 (roughly price × 1.20)

When you’ll see GST/service charge excluded

  • Restaurants and hotels: if they impose a service charge, “++” or a clear note about GST/service charge is common.
  • Other sectors: most public price displays are GST-inclusive; if you see “+GST”, rely on the receipt and keep evidence for reconciliation.

Payments: the safest setup for a new arrival

  • Card: Visa/Mastercard is the broadest baseline; still keep a backup method.
  • PayNow / SGQR: requires a working local account/registration; don’t depend on it before your banking is set up.
  • NETS: a common local debit payment network; if you have a local bank card, ask if NETS (incl. contactless) is supported.
  • Cash: not always required, but useful for older shops, pop-ups, or payment-system downtime.

Tipping (avoid awkwardness)

  • If your bill already has a service charge: you typically don’t need to tip extra.
  • If there’s no service charge and you want to: a small optional tip is fine, but it’s not a default expectation.
  • Don’t let social pressure break your budget—clarity beats overpaying.

Sources and verification links

SGBook summarises practical planning ranges and links back to official sources so you can verify before making decisions.