To Tip or Not to Tip? Here’s What to Do in Every Awkward Situation
Here are some suggestions on how much to tip in every situation.
“Was that enough or too much?”. No matter who, how much, or if you should tip at all, we’re sharing how much to tip in every situation.
To help gauge an appropriate tip amount, I scoured the information on NerdWallet, Bankrate, and Ramsey Solutions for suggestions of everyday instances for tipping. Plus, we took into account firsthand experience from hundreds of our Hip readers who had thoughtful feedback on various tipping situations.
Tired of feeling forced to tip everywhere? Vent about your tipping culture fatigue here.
Note: Tipping is a personal decision and can vary greatly depending on the individual, the experience, and the level of service received. While we’ve provided general suggestions, these are simply guidelines, not rules. What feels appropriate for someone’s lifestyle or budget may differ from another’s. Some people tip based strictly on service quality, while others factor in the overall experience.
Above all, each interaction deserves kindness, respect, and courtesy. A genuine “thank you” and a warm smile can go a long way in showing appreciation, regardless of the amount left behind.
How much to tip food & drink services:
Bartenders:
$1-2 per drink or 15-20% of the bill
This varies depending on the atmosphere of the establishment. If your bartender is extremely knowledgeable about the drinks they serve, they’re friendly and conversational, or they buy you a round, I’d consider tipping a little extra.
Wine/beer tasting:
$5–10 per person for free tastings, groups, or tours, or 10–20% of the tasting fee if paid
Tipping at wine or beer tastings isn’t required, but is appreciated, especially with good service or extra pours. For free tastings, $5–$10 per person is thoughtful; for paid ones, tip 10–20%. At breweries, tip like at a bar: $1–$2 per pour or 15–20% of your tab. For tours or groups, $5–$10 per person or a pooled tip is courteous. Tip based on your experience and service quality.
Baristas:
$0-$2
Tipping on a quick coffee isn’t usually expected, and always appreciated by baristas. Most tips come from spare change left after an order, especially when a drink is handcrafted or food is heated. If the barista goes out of their way—offering exceptional service or customization—that’s a good reason to leave a tip.
Waiter/waitress:
15-20%
For sit-down restaurants, it’s standard to tip 15–20% of the total bill before tax. If the service is exceptional, consider tipping more; if it’s subpar, still leave at least 10% unless the experience was truly unacceptable.
Lastly, when using a gift certificate, promotion, or coupon, remember to tip on the full meal value, not just on what was actually paid.
Host or maître d’
$10-$20
Times when you would consider tipping them: when they give you the best table, when they offer you a table without a reservation on a busy night, or if you just want to impress your date. 😉
Takeout food pick-up:
$0 – 10%
Tipping on takeout isn’t required, but leaving 5–10% is a nice gesture, especially if the staff packs the order carefully or brings it to your car. Some servers state that if there’s not a dedicated take-out employee, it takes extra time for them to pack orders with all the utensils, condiments, and napkins. Plus, it takes time away from their tables, so just food for thought. We recommend, if it’s a large or complex order, a tip shows appreciation for their effort.
Restaurant/food delivery:
$5 – 20%
For restaurant delivery, it’s standard to tip 15–20% of the bill, with a $5 minimum. This covers the driver’s gas, time spent waiting on your food, and checking your order for accuracy. If the delivery fee is included, remember that it often doesn’t go to the driver, so tipping separately is still important.
Food delivery app:
$2 per mile or 15%
For app deliveries like DoorDash, Grubhub, or Uber Eats, we recommend tipping 15–20% of the total or a minimum of $2 per mile. It’s important to note that tipping is the main way delivery drivers earn, and depending on distance, order size, weather, and wear and tear on their car, it’s essential that they’re compensated fairly. Delivery fees usually go to the app.
Buffets:
10% of the bill
This might seem a little out of the ordinary due to the self-serve aspect, but someone is usually still taking your drink order and clearing your table as you make trips to the buffet line. Tips can be more than this suggested amount in the case of great service.
Grocery shopping & delivery services:
According to Ramsey Solutions, a 15-20% gratuity is suggested when using a grocery delivery service. You’re making a list and sending it to someone who is going to physically shop for you and, most of the time, be in constant contact with you, asking questions and making sure they have everything you need.
Depending on the service, they might use their own personal vehicles to deliver those heavy groceries. Luckily, with services like this, you can gauge a job well done after the shopper has left your doorstep. Are your frozen products still cold? Is the produce fresh and vibrant? Did they communicate about substitutions or out-of-stock products?
If you think your shopper did an outstanding job picking out the best fruits, lugging a large pack of water up your stairs, or suffering through inclement weather to get to your home, feel free to show that appreciation through a tip.
Hip Tip: Read why we’re huge fans of grocery delivery services!
Grocery store pickup:
$0
When ordering your groceries directly through a store for pickup, you’ll be happy to know that the price you set out to pay doesn’t come with any other financial strings attached. A majority of the stores that offer this type of service have policies in place to prohibit tipping as a safety precaution for their employees.
Many store associates will let you know if they’re not allowed to accept tips should you try to slip them a few bucks upon pickup, but you can always call and speak to a store supervisor if you have questions about their tipping policy.
How much to tip salons and spas:
Massage therapists:
15-20% of the service
It’s appropriate to tip 15-20% of the bill at most day spas. However, if you’re getting a massage at a bargain price or are using a coupon code, the gratuity should be based on the actual retail value of the service and not the reduced rate.
If you’re staying at a resort spa, note that many spas add a service fee of 18-20% to the massage or facial. If you think you received exceptional service, you can give the therapist additional money in the treatment room.
Beauticians & cosmetologists:
15-20% of the service
When it comes to manis and pedis, tip them like you would tip your hairstylist. With a 15% to 20% tip. If you are having an extra service done, adjust the amount accordingly. This also goes for eyelash extensions and waxes.
Barber/hairstylist:
15-20% (some may not allow tips, but this is rare)
Tipping at a hair salon typically follows the 15–20% rule based on the total cost of your service, but it can vary depending on how the salon operates and who provides the service. Here’s a breakdown:
- If multiple people are involved (e.g., one shampoos, another cuts, someone else colors), it’s appropriate to tip each person individually—a few dollars to the assistant (e.g., $3–$5) and 15–20% to the primary stylist based on their portion of the service.
- If one stylist does it all, a straight 15–20% of the total bill is standard.
- In booth rental salons, where stylists rent their chairs and operate independently, tipping is still expected unless the stylist is also the owner and prefers not to be tipped (ask if unsure).
- In commission-based salons (where stylists are hired by an owner), tipping is more customary, as stylists typically earn a percentage of what you pay.
If you’re ever unsure, it’s okay to ask the front desk or your stylist how tips are typically handled—most appreciate the consideration.
Dog groomers:
15-20% of the service total
For dog groomers, it’s customary to tip 15–20% of the total grooming cost, just like with human salon services. If your groomer goes above and beyond, such as handling a difficult dog, squeezing you in last-minute, or doing an exceptional job. A higher tip is a thoughtful way to show appreciation.
Tattoo artists:
15-20%
It’s customary to tip tattoo artists typically 15–20% of the total cost of the tattoo, similar to other personal services. For large or multi-session pieces, some clients tip at each session or give a larger tip at the end. If the artist goes above and beyond with design, detail, or time, a higher tip is a great way to show appreciation.
How much to tip for various entertainment:
Musicians (at a lounge):
$1-$5
Typically, patrons tip on their way out when a gratuity receptacle is present. Consider adding an extra dollar if they played a song you requested.
Musicians (at a table):
$1-$5
According to EtiquetteScholar.com, a good rule of thumb is $1 per person in the musical group, maxing out at $5. Again, if you have a song request granted, consider throwing in an extra dollar.
Casino dealers:
Varies between casinos
Wages for casino dealers can widely vary between casinos, so tipping can be standard based on the location. You can tip by either placing a bet for the dealer, tossing a chip to the dealer, or tipping with bills when you cash out.
Tipping can also get the attention of dealers and pit bosses, which may make them more likely to provide drinks and comps during your time there.
Casino servers:
$1 per drink
Even if you’re playing somewhere that offers free drinks while you’re actively participating in table games or slots, tip your server for each trip they make to the bar on your behalf.
Cruises:
$16-$23 per person a day
Most cruise lines automatically charge $16–$23 per person, per day in gratuities, depending on the cruise line, ship, and stateroom type. These charges cover housekeeping and dining staff and are added to your stateroom account unless you’ve prepaid or opt out (where allowed). Additional 15–20% gratuities may also be applied to specialty services like spa treatments and alcoholic beverages.
Tip amounts vary by cruise line and room category, and rates often increase over time, so it’s best to check your specific cruise line’s website for the most current tipping policies.
Photographers
$0
Tipping photographers isn’t typically expected, especially for family, portrait, or mini sessions, as most set their own rates to reflect the full value of their work. For weddings or all-day events, a tip is more common but still optional, usually given when the service goes above and beyond. If tipping doesn’t feel necessary, a thoughtful thank-you, a great review, or referring others is often just as appreciated.
How much to tip hospitality & travel services:
Hotel housekeepers
$2-$5
As a rule of thumb, tips are typically $2 per person, per night. To ensure the best service, it’s best to leave the tip in an envelope for housekeeping each day rather than all at once at the end of your trip. If you make special requests, like extra amenities, consider throwing in a little more.
Room service
15-20% if gratuity has not been included in the bill
According to a gratuity guide from the American Hotel & Lodging Association, room service staff should be tipped 15-20% of their total meal bill. However, some hotels may already include gratuity on the bill, so be sure to check the fine print on the menu carefully. If this is the case, there’s no need to tip the staff directly.
Valet
$1-$10
If you’re not sure exactly how much, some people use the rule of thumb of $1 per $10,000 of the value of your car.
Coat check
$1 or $2
This applies only if it’s a courtesy coat check. A nice rule of thumb, according to RealSimple.com, is $1 per coat and $2 for a larger bag. If there’s a fee, then no tip is required.
Restroom attendants
$0-$1
If it’s a nicer establishment, they’re keeping the counter clean and restocked, handing you a towel, and sometimes even giving you complimentary items such as fragrances, candy, and more. Tipping anywhere from 50¢ to a few dollars is definitely a nice gesture.
Outdoor guides
No standard
Consider a 10-20% tip if you have an exceptional experience with a well-trained and knowledgeable guide. Some companies have a no-tip policy, though, so don’t be shocked if your offer is turned down.
How much to tip transportation & delivery services:
Movers
$4-5/hour per mover
Tipping movers isn’t mandatory, but it’s a common way to show appreciation for their hard work. A typical tip is $4–$5 per mover per hour, depending on the length and difficulty of the move. While moving is costly, tipping is still appreciated, especially if the crew handles heavy items, works efficiently, or provides great service.
Furniture delivery
$5-$20 per person
The amount will depend on the size and complexity of the delivery. If the delivery person is delivering and putting the furniture together in your house, you may want to opt for a more generous amount.
Car washers
- $2-$5 for handwashing
- 10-20% for detailing
- $0-$2 for automatic
For a standard hand wash, a $2–$5 tip is appropriate, often left in a general tip jar shared by the staff. If you’re getting a full detail, tipping 10–20% of the total cost is more customary, especially for high-effort jobs. However, for automatic car washes where no one physically touches your car, tipping isn’t expected, though you might still tip if an attendant preps your vehicle or dries it afterward.
Ridesharing services
For Uber or Lyft rides, tipping 10–20% is standard, with more given for exceptional service. If your driver offers extras like bottled water, snacks, phone chargers, or creates a particularly comfortable experience, consider tipping on the higher end—or even a few extra dollars—as a thank-you. While not required, tips are a key part of drivers’ income and are always appreciated.
How much to tip for childcare services:
Babysitters & nannies
$0 up to 1 night’s pay
When it comes to tipping for childcare providers, there are a couple of thoughtful approaches. For babysitters or nannies, tipping is optional, but a holiday bonus of $10–$20 per day or one night’s pay is a generous way to show appreciation for their care
Daycare staff & teachers
$0 or group gift card during holidays
For daycare staff or teachers, it’s often more appropriate to give a small gift or a group gift rather than cash. A $10–$50 gift card or a heartfelt token of thanks during the holidays is typically well-received and meaningful.
How much to tip for home & task-based services:
Maid service
15-20% of the service
If you have a house cleaner who does a great job, it is always nice to show your appreciation by giving them a nice tip. However, the amount can vary depending on the amount of space they are cleaning, if they’re tackling a really dirty project (like a filthy kids’ bathroom), and how well the job is done.
Golf course caddies
Varies between courses
For tipping a caddie, your best bet is to ask the caddie master or head pro what is customary at that golf course. If you’re having your clubs cleaned, tip anywhere between $3-5, plus a little extra if they bring them out to your car. Some clubs may have a no-tipping policy. Tips for shoe service, such as changing spikes, cleaning, and polishing, are anywhere from $5-$10.
Miscellaneous services
- Up to 10%
- Popular services: TaskRabbit
Tipping on TaskRabbit isn’t required, but it’s a thoughtful way to show appreciation for someone doing a convenience-based service, especially since Taskers are independent contractors with no guaranteed income. While they set their own hourly rates and aren’t solely dependent on tips, many earn relatively little overall. If your Tasker does a good job, especially with labor-intensive tasks like cleaning, furniture assembly, or moving, offering a small tip is a kind gesture that helps support underpaid gig workers.
How much to tip for events & celebrations:
Catering staff
15%-20% (if not already included)
Tipping for event-related services often depends on the level of involvement and whether gratuity is already included in the contract. For catering staff, a tip of 15–20% of the total catering bill, divided among the team, is customary if not already added.
Event planners
0%-20%
Event planners don’t always expect a tip, but if they’ve gone above and beyond, a 10–20% gratuity is a generous way to show appreciation. Just be sure it’s not already included in their fee.
Wedding officiants
$50-$100
According to Zola, a $50–$100 tip is standard for wedding officiants, unless they’re affiliated with a religious institution, in which case a donation to the organization may be more appropriate.
When are gratuities unnecessary?
There are actually a few instances when a tip is not required, such as:
- Automatic Service Charges Are Already Included
- Some restaurants, hotels, or cruise lines automatically add gratuity to the bill.
- Self-Service Situations
- Buffets (unless staff provide consistent table service)
- Self-serve frozen yogurt or coffee bars
- Self-checkout lines
- Retail Store Employees
- Employees at grocery stores, clothing shops, and most retail environments are not tipped.
- Tech-Based Grocery Pickup at Major Retailers
- Stores like Walmart or Target often prohibit employees from accepting tips for curbside pickup.
- Fast Food Chains & Drive-Thrus
- Tipping is not customary, though there may be a tip jar.
- Professional Services with High Fees
- Lawyers, doctors, accountants, therapists, and other licensed professionals are not tipped.
- When There’s a Strict No-Tipping Policy
- Some businesses (certain salons, spas, or golf clubs) post clear no-tipping rules.
- Automatic Car Washes (No Human Interaction)
- No tip is needed if no one physically touches your car
- Government or Public Service Workers
- Postal workers, teachers, firefighters, etc., often cannot accept tips or gifts due to ethics rules.
- Volunteers or Community Service Providers
- Individuals volunteering their time or serving in a non-paid capacity shouldn’t be tipped, though a thank-you gift is always nice.
For the following, a tip isn’t necessarily required, but offering them a drink for their hard labor in your home is a courtesy gesture:
-
- Appliance Repairman
- Carpet Cleaners
- Electricians
- Plumbers
- Handymen
- Home Services when the owner is the one completing the job
Here’s an easy tip hack:
To calculate a 20% tip, first, identify 10%, then double that amount. So, if the total cost of your service was $90.00, move your decimal over one space to the left to find 10%. That leaves you with $9. Then double that $9 to find your 20% tip, which would be $18. Voila!
Use a handy tip calculator if you need help faster!
Let us know in the comments which services you love and your thoughts regarding these tipping ranges. And remember, everyone approaches tipping differently, so please be respectful of varying views in responses. 🙂
Looking for more ways to express gratitude? Check out our random acts of kindness ideas.
We always give 20% or more. When the service isn’t good then it will be 15%.
Always do 15 as that was standard until tipping culture ballooned.
I didn’t know you were supposed to tip hotel room service. Also, when you hire someone to clean your house who has their own business and rates, are you supposed to tip them? I’ve only hired someone one time but I didn’t know I was supposed to tip :/ I’ve always done 20% for hair. Is it normal to tip between 10-20%?
My husband and I always leave a tip. For everything. The tip may vary on the service but something is ALWAYS better than zero. We try to pay it forward. We are on a VERY tight budget but still try to be considerate
I leave a tip based on how the service was. If you give great service you get a great tip. Not so great service small tip. I have been to places where they act like it is a bother for me to be there.
You’re so welcome! Thanks a bunch for taking the time to share with us!
I feel so sheepish…I never (I’m being very honest) knew that tipping for dog grooming was a thing. I feel a little ashamed I haven’t tipped for this. I’ve always taken our pooch to our local vet for grooming, so hoping they charge a base rate that is competitive….just didn’t know that. Helpful article…thank you!
You’re welcome! Thanks so much for taking a moment to share your thoughts with us!
I’ve tipped people delivering pizza and furniture full size candy bars before. They seemed genuinely happily surprised and grateful than when I’ve tipped 2$-10$
As someone who has worked for a resort spa for nearly 20 years, I’ve seen the industry change greatly.
We used to receive a much higher commission and guests were able to tip according to service.
Now we receive a much lower commission per service and the hotel adds on a 20% service charge. What’s isn’t disclosed to guests is that we only receive a portion of that service charge. The hotel receives the rest. The guest has the right to ask the service charge to be adjusted accordingly and they can opt to leave strictly cash instead, which does go to the service provider in its entirety. This is always much more appreciated.
For those of us that go wine tasting make sure you tip your tasting room attendants accordingly. When you think about what you get and learn from them… they spend anywhere from 30 minutes to an hour educating you on the entire wine industry. It starts with the growing, harvesting, processing, characteristics, venue…. Tasting room attendants get paid very minimal. Most don’t get commission of wine sales so please tip according to service which is usually much more than a bartender gives 🍷
What a useful tool, especially nowadays when those in our service industry are working so hard and need the help so desperately. Thanks as always, HIP, for keeping our community informed on how we can help each other!
You’re most welcome, Bobbie! Thank you for the kind feedback! 🤗
I’ve been a server for 23 years so I thought I’d jump into the conversation ☺️ I make a very good living by working for tips. Servers are paid less than minimum wage (at least in my state). We still pay tax on the tips that we receive and I believe there is a rule that if our tips don’t bump us up to minimum wage then the employer has to cover the difference. This has never happened to me. However, if the employers had to pay the servers more, that would mean they would likely have less staff on the floor. So, your server would go from having 3-5 tables to having 10+ tables (I’m estimating). The level of service you receive would suffer greatly. I personally love going out and getting great service and I’d be sad to see that option disappear. I agree the system is crazy but I’m not sure how to fix it and maintain the experience we all love. I love my job and I’m greatful that people have been so generous over the years.
I used to be in housekeeping. The supervisor would open all the rooms of the hotel for housemaids. I never received tips for room cleaning. One weekend, a friend of mine happened to stay in a room I typically cleaned and said she was leaving me a big tip. I was so excited to clean the room, but unfortunately, I didn’t receive it. The tip was collected by the supervisor prior to me cleaning the room. 🙁
My son delivers furniture and they appreciate tips. It’s a hard job and the delivery fee does not go to the delivery drivers.
Hip2Save, thank you for all you do! Thank you for your time and effort. Regardless of the service, sometimes we do not know what that other person is going through. If I, we, are able to make a difference in this world, I want to do it. I have always tipped, not matter what. I hope continue to my journey to be debt free so I can live like no one else and live and give like no one else. We have to make others smile despite the way this world is. Thanks again!
You’re SO very welcome! Thank YOU for taking a moment to share your thoughts with us!
Daughter of a salon owner and yes, it is customary to tip the owner as you would tip anyone else. 🙂
I tip our mail carrier and newspaper delivery person at Christmas time (about $25.00 each) with a nice handwritten card thanking them for great service all year.
As a Federal employee it is illegal for a Fed (where I work) to take a gift over $10 in value. Taking cash is a absolute no no. It could cost them their job. I am not USPS so you should ask them what the rules are but losing a Fed retirement is not worth $25 IMO
I tip for take out because there are people cooking and preparing your food for going out the door. Often tips are shared between kitchen and wait staff and I am grateful that they work together to help feed me and my family.
Not everyone can “get another job” nor would you want them to do so – what will happen then to your favorite restaurants, etc?
Tipping is very complicated. For services like Instacart, I don’t tip 15% upfront. I give a minimum amount and only increase the tip after my order had been delivered. I give a generous tip only if I am satisfied. I believe in paying for hard work. If someone does a good job they should get paid more. If someone does a lousy job, they should be tipped a minimum amount.
I’d rather they increase the price for everything and eliminate tipping.
Having worked at a spa in a large hotel, I can help answer this question. The spa was privately owned and the owners paid $12k a month rent just to have the spa there and large amount of $ to offer organically sourced ingredients for facials, body treatments etc, so with exorbitant overhead, so the staff therapists were only paid roughly $21 to $32 on a $100 massage.
You should always tip your tattoo artist. They will more than take care of you as far as touch ups, etc go. When I decided to add some color to a tattoo I have, my artist did not charge me because I tip her so well.
My husband and I deliver for DoorDash on some evenings. We’ve gotten orders sent to us that only paid $3.25 and the distance was 10+ miles away. The $3.25 came from DoorDash so there was NO TIP on the delivery order. We use our own car so we pay for gas and insurance and we’re are adding many extra miles to our car.
There were times, we got very unlucky, like when the restaurant was backed up and we waited a very long time for an order. Getting paid $3.25 for the entire hour to pick up the order and deliver to the person was not even enough to cover the gas, considering gas prices nowadays.
Please…if you do order from DoorDash, Uber Eats, and similar delivery services, tip at least $5. Even if your order is small, the driver still needs to wait at the restaurant and make the trip for you.
You all are making me feel better about helping out my adult son. I cut his hair for free. We have a large family, and I’m the only one who goes to the salon. I do most of the haircuts, but several of my older kids are learning to cut hair. I think we’re probably saving more money than I realized!
I always tip my hairstylist very well, but I do go to an inexpensive place. Sometimes I wish they would spend a little more time on my hair.😂
I agree the tipping is getting out of control. When I go out to eat and am actually served and provided with service I tip 15% no matter the service. If I liked their service etc they get 20%. But the idea of tipping when I go there to pick up my order then I don’t and really don’t feel bad cause they didn’t service me..they did their job! Soo tired of the constant tip jar asking for tips when no service was provided!!
Hair Salon: My stylist and her friend, another stylist, rent a room in a facility. They are the owners of their own separate hair businesses using the same space. The room is about 6×10. The chairs are close and they share the sink and supplies. A cut, color and blow out is over $200. She double books and is always juggling two clients. She uses a square. She works when she wants to, and has recently increased pricing b/c she opened another single owner space in a nearby town, thus reducing her hours at the original location. I’ve been with her for ten years, and followed her twice before she set up her own place. She always puts the square, with tip amounts in front of me while standing over my shoulder. She splits supplies with the other stylist/owner, and her rent is locked in. I double the total at Christmas, have given her gifts when her babies were born, and have lent an ear for many of her family dramas. Yes. She does good hair! Lol. I’ve always felt odd tipping her b/c she has stated how low cost the space is and she shares costs with her friend. She doesn’t list her costs, and it’s always a surprise what my cost will be. Tip, or no tip?
I went to a new hairdresser who owned his own business. He refused my tip because he said he made all proceeds. I’ve been told you don’t tip owners for that reason.
I never tip because my stylist is the owner and gets all earnings.
Realize it’s super late but it never ceases to amaze me how often Newspaper Carriers get overlooked. Yes I’m partial, I met my husband at the newspaper company I worked at ❤. He has been doing this for over 15 years and that’s how he supports our family. Yes, it’s a dying service with digital news available but many are older who aren’t savvy or just those classic “having a cup of coffee and holding a paper in your hand” kind of people. It’s a popular misconception with customers assuming they get compensated for gas, get paid extra for holidays or use a company vehicle. Paper carriers are expected to still have to deliver in any type of weather, if it’s printed for that day it gets delivered for that day (even on Christmas). Did you know they have to pay themselves for their supplies too, like rubberbands and plastic bags? We live up North and I can’t tell you how difficult it is to deliver to customers who don’t plow or shovel their driveways or make paper tubes accessible. Customers can complain against them and they get docked in their pay if they do. Seven days a week my husband wakes up at 12:30 am and there are times I don’t see him until 12noon. It pained me that he was considered an essential worker in the beginning of the pandemic but got zero compensation for his job. On the brighter side, those that tip at Christmas time for the year are super appreciated. It helps with car maintenance costs, gas or new tires and just overall feeling of appreciation for a tough job well done. But just like only donating to food pantries during the holidays, tips are definitely needed and appreciated throughout the year. With all that being said (and I super appreciate you sticking around to read all this🙂) a tip amount of $1-$5 a week would be fair or more depending on delivery instructions, like if he has to walk it up to your porch or put it in special/specific place. To all those in service employment, especially being on the “other side” of it, we truly appreciate your customer service, dedication and hardwork making this world running smoothly for all of us! And yes, thank you too to all at HIP2SAVE for all that you do!
I agree with many of these however. The rule of thumb for door dash type delivery is actually a minimum of $2.00 a mile for the tip. It should go up from there when considering the amount and weight of items and if you live in an apartment. Also I feel that drive through coffee should not have to be a tipped service.
My sitter is $45 per day in her home and I usually give her about 15%-20% in cash when I pick up my dog. Sometimes I bring back a treat for her too. 🙂
If you’re not tipping on carryout, you’re cheating the wait staff who put together your salad, your drink, your “to go” dressings for your salad, checked your order to make sure you got what you ordered, added in the napkins and cutlery, etc. People in the service industry are waiting on you, whether you see them or not. Don’t be a cheapskate.
In my state everyone working gets at least $15 per hour. I generally do not tip take out. That is part of why I do take out sometimes, to save money one drinks, tips, etc. A lot of take out requires me to walk in and get it, so they are literally just putting it in a bag. Also, in my state you must ask for silverware, etc so can’t even get that without asking for it specifically.
Carry out in my area refers to ordering over the phone and picking from the counter. So no tips. Customer is the person here carrying their own food in pouring rain and freezing temperatures, so no tip.
I used to do photography on the side and I’ve only been tipped once. I did spend more time with the family during the session than my planned time and it was nice that it was appreciated. That was years ago and I’ve never forgotten how it made me feel.
I work for Shipt, Instacart and Spark and tips are GREATLY appreciated, goes a long way, but in all honesty its only about 50% we get a tip, half people leave NO tip at all even on large orders…please put the word out
Aside from servers who are legally paid sub-minimum wages, tipping should be situation specific. I’ve had a cleaning person whose rates were ridiculously high for the quality and time put in, and I never felt bad about not tipping her. On the other hand, I’ve tipped a hairstylist twice the price of the haircut when I got a super deal for my kid’s trim. When professional teachers with graduate degrees can be paid the equivalent of just $20/hour and aren’t tipped for their important societal services, then it’s hard for me to justify tipping all the services above just because.
I’m so mixed on this. There are so many people asking for tips and I really don’t believe you should tip for most of them. There’s a tip jar now at subway to tip the sandwich maker. I pay $12 for a sandwich and they get paid to make it. I don’t believe in tipping ups or postal worker. They make more than healthcare workers and you never see anyone tip the ER tech who casted your arm or leg. I just don’t get it. If you’re a waiter making $5 an hr, I’m tipping you. If you’re doordash, using your car and gas to bring my food, I’m tipping you. I’m not tipping a maid service that I’m already paying for the service or tipping my roofers that I paid $8,000 to get. Just gotta use common sense and not let everyone make you feel guilty for not tipping.
I have tipping fatigue. I do tip when it is appropriate and when I received excellent service. Tipping has got out hand. I’m tired seeing all those tipping jars everywhere you go and pop up tipping on screen before you pay. No other country have this tipping obsession. Tipping or not tipping should be a choice depending on the service.
There was a big discussion of this topic on a Holland America cruise forum I’m on. There are daily charges (like $16.50 per day) added to rooms, to be split among the staff. Several people commented that they would go to the front desk and “opt out” of the daily charges, then tip the people that served them individually. There is a written policy at HAL that if a passenger opts out, the room attendant, dining room server or whoever else received cash tips, must report those to be split with the other staff anyway. So defeats the purpose. However, if the cash tip is in addition to the daily charges, the server/attendant etc gets to keep the cash. We pay the charges, then always tip our attendants and servers (and usually laundry too). They do a great job and work really hard, for not much money.
Honestly I never tip a take out order. I don’t tip fast food restaurants either. If I’m sitting inside at a nicer restaurant and they take my order, bring it and treat us well with a smile on their face I am
More than happy to tip 20% or more.
My son is a server at Cracker Barrel. He is paid $4.07 /hr. Everyday, he comes home and has had 1-2 tables that do not tip him at all (he says it is usually the “needy” tables that require more attention are the worst offenders). Coffee shop workers, etc. at least get paid minimum wage. Tip your wait staff!
You may want to tip in cash because the big beautiful bill will only eliminate taxes on cash tips, not credit card tips and etc.
Legit question…. do people really pay taxes on cash tips currently? Its not like anyone would know the exact amount that someone earns in cash tips. Maybe not ethical, but why would anyone claim all their cash tips anyway? Just curious.
I was a waitress in my twenties into my 30s. While the IRS requires servers to claim 100% of tips, I will say that my claims were probably not that accurate lol. I did claim about 12% of my sales as my tip amounts. Many servers did not do this. However, I knew that my higher income by claiming tips, would increase my social security payments when I retired. I’m so glad I claimed most of my tips, because I was disabled at 45 years old. My disability checks would have been far, far lower if I had not claimed those tips. Most tipped workers in their twenties, though, don’t think that far ahead, lol.
Any idea about tipping dog boarding people who work for the local vet?
I can’t believe this post from 5 years ago is made active again. Would nobody not address the white elephant in the room? In last 10 years, Americans over have become poor. People can barely afford go out to eat or evening in town. We all are trying to save by visiting websites like this to save a buck or two. Tipping culture is out of control. Now to establish tipping as a norm is ridiculous. Trust me anybody will be happy to get free money over and above their pay. Employers are happy to keep their workers at or below minimum and let the customer pay them. Workers are happy to get paid without paying taxes. Only person suffering is the consumer.
Agree on the recycled posts. I followed Hip2 for probably 10 years but less lately. Thought it would be fun to look today and I see comments I read in 2022. I don’t want to be critical but please stop recycling content. I miss the old Hip2.
Thanks so much for sharing your thoughts, Nel — we truly appreciate you being part of the Hip2Save community for so many years! ❤️ While this post was originally shared a while ago, we’ve since updated it with current info from sources like NerdWallet, Bankrate, and Ramsey Solutions. We also included fresh feedback from our team and hundreds of readers who shared their real-life tipping experiences. We’ve kept some of the older comments visible since they still offer helpful insights, but we totally understand wanting fresh content. Your feedback really means a lot, and we’re always working to keep our posts updated and useful for both loyal readers and new visitors alike! 🤗
My sister is an Esthetician and has her own business. She decided to do away with tipping as she feels that she gives her best to every client who books an appointment and it takes the pressure off of people to decide how much to tip, etc. Even if someone offers her a tip, she declines and tells them it’s already included in her pricing. It sure would be nice if other businesses would/could do the same.
As I just returned from vacation, and stayed at 4 different places, I wanted to discuss the topic of tipping housekeeping. I did not, even though I was going to. Why? Because aside from one property emptying out our small trash can every couple days (at one location only), nothing else was done at any of the properties. No beds made, no fresh towels, no soap refills.. and these were not inexpensive locations. It seems US hotel housekeeping is more to clean rooms between guests now, or maybe on demand? They still had envelopes out.
I completely agree. Since covid anywhere that I have stayed doesn’t clean your room until you leave. I had to hunt down a housekeeper with a cart to get clean towels and empty my garbage. I’m not tipping for that. There have been a couple of places that I’ve stayed at that by the end of my stay I’ve felt like I should be getting the tip!