How to calculate a reverse percentage

Divide the final value by the percentage it represents, then multiply by 100 to find the original value.

Example:
$80 represents 80% of the original price.

80 ÷ 80 × 100 = 100

Original price = $100

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When would you use a reverse percentage?

Reverse percentages are useful when you know the final value after a percentage increase or decrease but want to find the original value. They are commonly used for sale prices, VAT, tax, price increases and salary changes.

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For example, if an item costs $120 after a 20% increase, $120 represents 120% of the original price. Dividing $120 by 1.20 gives an original price of $100.

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Important: To reverse a percentage change, you cannot simply add or subtract the same percentage. You need to calculate the original value from the percentage represented by the final amount.

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Related calculation: If you want to calculate how much a value has increased or decreased from its original amount, use our Percentage Change Calculator.