Spanish Phrases for Paying the Bill


Knowing how to ask for the check and handle payment in Spanish-speaking countries can save you time and avoid awkward moments. Here are the most useful phrases for real-world situations.

1. Asking for the Check

English → Spanish

  • The check, please.
    La cuenta, por favor.

  • Can you bring me the check?
    ¿Me puede traer la cuenta?

  • We’re ready for the check.
    Estamos listos para la cuenta.

  • Is the check separate or together?
    ¿La cuenta es separada o junta?

  • Can we get separate checks?
    ¿Podemos tener cuentas separadas?

2. Clarifying What’s on the Bill

  • Can you explain this charge?
    ¿Puede explicarme este cargo?

  • I think there’s a mistake.
    Creo que hay un error.

  • Is service/tip included?
    ¿Está incluido el servicio?
    ¿Está incluida la propina?

  • Can I see the receipt?
    ¿Puedo ver el recibo?

3. Paying by Card or Cash

  • Can I pay by card?
    ¿Puedo pagar con tarjeta?

  • Credit or debit?
    ¿Crédito o débito?

  • Do you accept contactless?
    ¿Aceptan pago sin contacto?

  • I’ll pay in cash.
    Pagaré en efectivo.

  • Do you have change?
    ¿Tiene cambio?

4. Splitting the Bill

  • We want to split the bill.
    Queremos dividir la cuenta.

  • Each pays for their own order.
    Cada uno paga lo suyo.

  • Split it evenly, please.
    Divídala en partes iguales, por favor.

5. Tipping

Tipping varies by country, so it’s worth asking:

  • Is the tip included?
    ¿La propina está incluida?

  • I’d like to add a tip.
    Quisiera agregar una propina.

  • Keep the change.
    Quédese con el cambio.

6. Final Courtesy Phrases

  • Thank you very much.
    Muchas gracias.

  • Everything was excellent.
    Todo estuvo excelente.

  • Have a good day/night.
    Que tenga buen día / buena noche.

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