You're not tipping enough

By Felicia Lentini, 2021

Published 10/27/20

How much are you supposed to tip? Is that too much? When should you tip? What if my server does poorly? These are all frequently asked questions when it comes to the service industry. It is traditionally recommended that you tip your server 15-20%.

For reference, If your purchase is $20, you would be tipping $3-$4. We don’t always have time to pause and do the math though. This is especially true now, as people are more often ordering takeout or delivery. A good rule is to round up to what “sounds like” an appropriate tip. If you pay for a $15 purchase with a $20 bill, it would be generous to have your server keep the change, especially if you can spare it.

You should always tip your server regardless of the quality of the service. They may be having a rough day, causing them to perform poorly. A generous tip will likely improve their day. Servers can get paid the federal server wage ($2.13 an hour plus tips) and this is not a living wage. They rely on tips to survive, and if you are choosing to not tip, you are choosing to take away their rent, their groceries, their livelihood. Is that really an appropriate way to respond if your food is late?

If you are not sure if an establishment accepts tips, ask. Your server will most likely be flattered that you wanted to tip them even if they cannot accept tips. Most fast food restaurants do not accept tips, but lots of small restaurants and counter service places do. In a situation where you realize that you do not have enough money to tip, or forgot to tip and it is too late, be sure to thank your server. They are people just like you.