Tipping etiquette is rapidly changing. In a
1. In general, follow the 15-20% rule. Whether you’re eating at a restaurant, heading to the salon or taking a cab or rideshare, tip 15-18% minimum for average service; a 20% tip indicates very good service. However, in some situations—like takeout and food or grocery delivery—tipping 10-15% is acceptable. At a restaurant with a service fee? Every restaurant handles this differently, but most don’t expect an additional tip on top of service fees exceeding 15%.
2. Only ordering a beverage? Tip per drink. When you’re at a bar or coffee shop, you can tip based on the type of drink you order. For a latte or a beer, $1 is considered an acceptable tip. For a cocktail, bump it up to $2 due to the added complexity. Many people skip the tip on a black coffee—and that’s fine. Though, if you frequent a specific coffee shop, you may want to throw a dollar in the tip jar every now and then.
3. Have cash on-hand. If you’re at a hotel or salon, getting valet service or using a coat check, cash is often the only way to tip a service provider. Wondering how much to tip? The American Hotel & Lodging Association suggests tipping housekeeping $1-$5 per night. For valet service, tip $2-$5 when the car is returned to you. For a bellhop or coat check, $1-$2 is acceptable.
4. Take your time. Don’t succumb to “screen pressure” when your service provider is holding a tablet for you to electronically sign and add your tip. Feel free to ask them for privacy so you can calculate the appropriate tip if you’d like to give more or less than the suggested tip on the screen.
5. When in doubt, use your best judgment. What about house cleaners or home and pet service providers? Or delivery people or movers? As more businesses and service providers offer the option for tips, there aren’t always hard-and-fast etiquette rules. But it’s worth remembering that tips help service workers make a more livable wage.
At the end of the day, most tipped workers offer services that enhance your life while doing work you wouldn’t want to do yourself—so a tip is a nice way to express your appreciation.
