A sample $300 bar float
A bar needs many $5 and $1 bills, plus quarters for odd prices.
| Bills and coins | Bar, $300 |
|---|---|
| $20 bills | 5 |
| $10 bills | 5 |
| $5 bills | 20 |
| $1 bills | 30 |
| Quarters | 80 |
| Total | $300.00 |
Before you count
- Close or transfer all open tabs. A tab that is still open is not cash.
- Take tips out of the drawer. Tip-out follows your bar rule, not the count.
- Write down every paid-out, for example a delivery paid in cash.
- Print the shift report so the cash sales number is final.
One drawer per bartender
If each bartender has an own drawer, count each one alone. Mixing drawers hides who is over or short. The calculator holds one count at a time, so print or copy the summary, press Reset, and count the next drawer.
Counting with a second person
Many bars use two people for the closing count. One counts, one watches, and both sign. Add the cashier name and register in Sheet details so the printed count says whose drawer it was.
Drops during a busy night
On a busy night the drawer fills up with large bills. Drop them to the safe in small batches. See the cash drop calculator to find what to take out and what to keep.
Common questions
How much float does a bar need?
Many bars start with $200 to $500 per drawer. Busy bars need more small bills. Your owner sets the number.
Are credit card tips counted as cash?
No. Card tips are not in the drawer. Only cash that is in the drawer is counted.
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