Understanding Roommate Bill Splits
How This Roommates Split Calculator Works
This calculator takes a list of roommates and shared bills (rent, utilities, internet, etc.) and applies simple split rules to determine how much each roommate should pay. It supports four split methods: equal (divide evenly), percentage shares (each roommate pays a fixed percentage), weights (divide by room size or other weights), and custom amounts (you specify exact amounts per person). For each bill, you can designate a primary payer (who actually pays the landlord or utility company), and the calculator shows who owes whom for reimbursement. All calculations are based on the numbers you enter—this tool does not access real bills or verify amounts.
Why Some People Use Equal vs Weighted Splits
Equal splits are simple: everyone pays the same amount regardless of room size, usage, or other factors. This works well when rooms are similar, usage is comparable, or roommates prefer simplicity. Weighted splits (based on room size, square footage, or other factors) are often used for rent when rooms differ significantly in size or quality. Percentage splits let you set fixed shares (e.g., one person pays 60%, another 40%). Custom amounts give you complete control but require you to ensure amounts add up correctly. Different bills might use different methods—for example, equal split for internet (shared equally) but weighted split for rent (by room size). This tool lets you choose the method per bill.
What This Tool Does Not Handle (Leases, Deposits, Landlord Arrangements, etc.)
This calculator does not account for: lease agreements or rental contracts, security deposits and how they're split, landlord payment arrangements, late fees or penalties, prorated amounts for partial months, tax implications of shared housing, legal obligations between roommates, dispute resolution, or any of the complex legal and financial factors that can affect shared housing. It uses static numbers you provide and simple math to calculate splits, not to interpret or enforce agreements. This tool is for internal roommate accounting only, not for legal, contractual, or landlord-tenant purposes.
Note: This calculator is for educational and convenience purposes only and does not provide legal, tax, financial, or mediation advice. It uses simplified assumptions and does not account for leases, deposits, or legal arrangements. Always follow your lease agreement and consult qualified legal and financial professionals for actual legal, tax, or contractual guidance.
Frequently Asked Questions
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