The Foundations of Tipping
Tipping, or gratuity, is a deeply embedded social custom in the United States. Unlike in many countries where service charges are included, a significant portion of service workers' income relies on tips. This practice is prevalent in restaurants, personal care services, and hospitality. The standard expectation for good service in a sit-down restaurant is typically 15-20% of the pre-tax bill. For services like haircuts or taxi rides, a tip of 15-20% is also customary.
Common Scenarios and Guidelines
Navigating when and how much to tip is key to adhering to local etiquette. In restaurants with table service, the tip is calculated based on the total bill before tax. If you receive exceptional service, it is appropriate to tip above the standard percentage. For bartenders, it is common to tip $1 to $2 per drink. When staying at a hotel, consider tipping housekeeping staff $3 to $5 per night of your stay, which you can leave in the room each day. For valet parking attendants and bellhops who assist with your luggage, a tip of $2 to $5 is standard. Ride-sharing services like Uber and Lyft have in-app tipping features, and a tip of 10-15% of the fare is a common courtesy for good service.
Tipping Etiquette for Various Services
| Service Category | Typical Tip Amount | Key Considerations | When to Adjust |
|---|
| Sit-Down Restaurant | 15-20% of pre-tax bill | Check if gratuity is already included for large parties. | Tip more for exceptional service; consider less for poor service, but communicate issues to management first. |
| Food Delivery | 10-15% of the order total, minimum $3-$5 | Consider a higher tip for bad weather or large orders. | Increase tip for timely delivery during peak hours or difficult conditions. |
| Personal Care (Hair Salon, Spa) | 15-20% of the service cost | The tip is often separate from the service provider and the assistant, if applicable. | Reward stylists or therapists you have a long-standing relationship with. |
| Hotel Services | Housekeeping: $3-$5/night; Bellhop: $2-$5/bag | Tip housekeeping daily, as staff may change. | Tip more for extra services or if you have special requests. |
It is important to note that while tipping is expected for these services, you should never feel pressured by offers that seem unrealistic or promises that cannot be fulfilled. Always base your decisions on the actual service received.
Practical Advice for Navigating Tipping
Always carry small bills to make tipping easier for valets, bellhops, and other cash-based services. When in doubt about whether to tip, it is generally better to offer a small gratuity for a service you are happy with. For take-out orders, tipping is not mandatory, but leaving a small amount ($1-$3) at a counter-service restaurant is a kind gesture if someone has packaged a large order. The most important principle is to be respectful. If service is genuinely poor, it is more constructive to speak politely with a manager rather than leaving no tip without explanation.
Ultimately, tipping is a way to show appreciation for good service. By following these general guidelines, you can navigate this aspect of American culture with confidence.
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