Tip

Tip

A tip (also called a gratuity) is a payment made to certain service sector workers in addition to the advertised price of the transaction. The amount of a tip is typically calculated as a percentage of the transaction value before applicable taxes. [http://www.wisegeek.com/how-much-should-i-tip-at-a-restaurant.htm How much to tip at a restaurant] ] Such payments and their size are a matter of social custom. Tipping varies among cultures and by service industry. Though by definition a tip is never legally required, and its amount is at the discretion of the person being served, in some circumstances failing to give an adequate tip when one is expected may be considered very miserly, a violation of etiquette, or unethical. In some other cultures or situations, giving a tip is not expected and offering one would be considered condescending or demeaning. In Japan, for example, tipping is considered an insult both to the owner of the establishment and to the server. In some circumstances (such as tipping government workers), tipping is illegal.Fact|date=August 2007.

Etymology

The word originates from the 16th century verb "tip", which meant "to give, hand, pass" and "to tap", possibly being derived from the Low German word "tippen", meaning "to tap." [http://www.michigan.gov/cis/0,1607,7-154-10555_12902_13118-34612--,00.html DLEG - Why do we tip the server in restaurants? ] ] [ [http://www.etymonline.com/index.php?search=tip&searchmode=none] See "Tip (version 2)" and "Tip (version 3)"] The modern German term for a tip is the unrelated "Trinkgeld", literally "drink money."

The notion of a "stock tip" is from the same slang, and the expression "hot tip", as in a sure winner in a horse race, also comes from the act of tapping. In the old days, during card games, gamblers would have an accomplice in the room. This accomplice would signal the player regarding the contents of an opponent's hand by "tipping the wink" - that is, by "tapping" out a code with his eyelid. The Oxford English Dictionary states that "tip" is derived from the English thieves' (which may be taken to mean "gambler") slang word "tip", meaning "to pass from one to another" (cf. "to give unexpectedly").

The word "tip" is often inaccurately claimed to be an acronym for terms such as "to insure prompt service", "to insure proper service", "to improve performance", and "to insure promptness". However, this etymology contradicts the Oxford English Dictionary ["The Compact Oxford English Dictionary". Oxford: Clarendon Press, 1993. ISBN 0-19-861258-3.] and is probably an example of a backronym. Moreover, most of these backronyms incorrectly require the word "insure" instead of the correct "ensure".

Some claim the origin for this term is a concept from Judaism, in that it was a "chiyuv" (obligation) for a seller to "tip the scales" in favor of the customer. The Torah says, "Nosen lo girumov" (Give to him a tip)." For example, if your customer has asked for three pounds of onions, you should measure out the three pounds plus one extra onion, tipping the scale in his favor. [" [http://www.torah.org/learning/honesty/question85.html Question 85: Extra Food in a Restaurant] ." "Honesty", "torah.org".]

Circumstances of tipping

In countries where tipping is expected (for example the United States), complicated social rules and etiquette have developed over the exact percentage to tip, and what should and should not be included in this calculation. In other cultures where tipping exists it is more flexible and no specific assumptions of the tip amount exist.

Some establishments pool tips and divide them to include employees who lack customer contact.At some restaurants, agreements among the staff require the servers to tip out members of the support staff (kitchen, bartender, and busser) at the end of their shift; [Internal Revenue Service. " [http://www.irs.gov/faqs/faq4-12.html 4.12: Tips] ". "Frequently Asked Questions".] ; this means that servers pay a certain fixed percentage of their sales (most often a portion less than 15 percent of total sales) to the other staff. Thus when a patron leaves a small tip, it results in the server having to receive less from the tipping pool than other staff. [" [http://tip20.com/div/con/index.html Tipping Standards (United States)] ", "Tip20! Service Industry Resource".]

Tipping is not expected when a fee is explicitly charged for the service. For example, a service charge for all patrons that is automatically added to the tab with no tipping the rule in Brazil. [Bly, Laura. " [http://www.usatoday.com/travel/news/2005-08-25-tipping_x.htm The tipping point: Will service charges replace voluntary gratuities?] ", "USA Today". 2005-08-25.] Bribery and corruption are sometimes disguised as tipping. In some places, police officers and other civil servants openly solicit tips, gifts and dubious fees using a variety of local euphemisms. For example, a traffic policeman in Mexico might ask a commuter to buy him a "refresco" (soft drink), while a Nigerian officer might expect "a little something for the weekend." [cite web | url=http://www.economist.com/world/displaystory.cfm?story_id=8401139 | title="The Ettiquette of Bribery: How to Grease a Palm"| accessdate=2007-01-02]

Tax and labor-law treatment

In some jurisdictions, tipped workers qualify for a lower statutory minimum wage from the employer, and therefore may supplement deficient pay with tips. For example, the United States Internal Revenue Service (IRS) requires restaurant employers to ensure that the total tip income reported to them during any pay period is at least eight percent of their total receipts for that period. If the reported total is below eight percent, employers must allocate as income the difference between the actual tip income reported and eight percent of gross receipts. [Internal Revenue Service. " [http://www.irs.gov/businesses/small/industries/article/0,,id=98401,00.html Reporting Tip Income] ." "Restaurant Tax Tips".] Therefore the IRS is implicitly assuming the average tip to be eight percent.

Legally, tips should be reported as income for tax purposes by the recipient. [Internal Revenue Service. Publication 1872. " [http://www.irs.gov/pub/irs-pdf/p1872.pdf Tips on Tips: A Guide to Tip Income Reporting for Employees in the Food and Beverage Industry] ."]

A tronc is an arrangement for the pooling and distribution to employees of tips, gratuities and/or service charges in the hotel and catering trade. The person who distributes monies from the tronc is known as the troncmaster. When a tronc exists in the UK, responsibility for operating PAYE on the distribution may lie with the troncmaster rather than the employer. [http://www.hmrc.gov.uk/manuals/echmanual/ech13010.htm Tronc Schemes] (The word 'tronc' has its origins in the French for collecting box.)

Tipping by Continent

Africa

Egypt

Tipping in Egypt can be tricky. Most public bathrooms are staffed, and visitors are expected to tip the attendant. Some restroom attendants, especially at tourist sites, will dole out toilet paper based on the tip they receive. Some locals have been known to attempt to demand baksheesh for minor services, such as assisting people out of their cars or helping people up if they trip in the street. Foreigners may be especially susceptible to this, and although some locals ask or demand tips, they are often not warranted. There is no rule for what is considered tip-worthy, so one must be ready to hand out an Egyptian pound or two just in case to use the bathroom or to get into some buildings. For services such as tour guides or translators, a tip of 20% or more is generally accepted. Taxis don't run on meters, just on agreed upon prices, so there is no additional tip to give, although some drivers may ask for extra. Tips are expected at restaurants, and can range from a few pounds to 15%.Fact|date=February 2007

outh Africa

In South Africa, the customary tip at restaurants is 10 percent, although some restaurants charge a mandatory service fee for large parties. A small amount is occasionally given to petrol station attendants for additional services, such as cleaning one's windscreen. Toilet cleaners at service stations along major road routes are sometimes tipped when they provide good service and keep the facilities clean. "Car guards", who claim to "look after" one's parked car are often given a small tip if they are in uniform and authorized; however those without uniforms are usually regarded as a nuisance, and tipping them is not compulsory, despite the fact that they often harass motorists looking for payment.Fact|date=February 2007

Ethiopia

In Ethiopia tipping is common in hotels, restaurants and bars. One is also expected to tip parking lot attendants whether officially hired by institutions or self assigned. In some restaurants it is customary to tip any dancers, and this is usually done by sticking the paper money bill on the forehead of the dancer.Fact|date=February 2007

Asia

Tipping is frowned upon in Asia and shows anger at the low prices,Fact|date=February 2007 although there are regional variations.

China

In China, traditionally there is no tipping. However, hotels that routinely serve foreign tourists may allow tipping. An example would be tour guides and associated drivers. [ [http://www.sfgate.com/cgi-bin/article.cgi?f=/c/a/2006/04/27/DDGPLIFCD11.DTL A few tips on handling gratuities worldwide ] ] In Mandarin, the term used is 小費 ("xiǎo fèi", lit. "small change"). In Cantonese, the most commonly used term is 貼士 (Jyutping:tip si), transliterated from the English word 'tips'.Fact|date=February 2007

Hong Kong

Tipping in Hong Kong is customary in some situations, but it can create legal issues due to some Hong Kong specific ordinances prohibiting tipping for certain services such as public utilities. Waiters, who have already received a compulsory 10% service charge, may occasionally be given an additional gratuity.

* Restaurants: 10% is usually included in the bill presented to the customer.
* Bars: tipping is not a normal occurrence, though some may round the bill.Fact|date=February 2007
* Hotels: service charge is always included, but bell-boys may expect a small gratuity.Fact|date=February 2007
* Taxis: the driver customarily rounds the bill. No matter how long the trip is, extra tipping is not expected.

India

In India there has traditionally been little or no tipping. Tips in India are never a percentage of the total value and many traditional restaurants in India do not expect a tip. However, this attitude has begun to change. While some people many leave as little as 5% or less of the total bill, people in major cities such as Bombay usually leave an amount that is about 10% and Delhi leaves about 15% of the value of the bill. Some restaurants have also have started placing jars at the cashier for people to drop in some change if they feel so, but this is a rather rare phenomenon. Most clubs in India have a complete ban on its members from tipping. Usually no service industry except the food services industry expects a tip. In India, it is illegal for taxi or rickshaw drivers to charge anything above the meter.

Japan

Tipping is not the common custom in Japan and it is almost never done at casual restaurants, as it is considered rude, implying that servers must be paid extra to ensure they do their job. When tipping occurs, the term used is チップ ("chippu", from English "tip"), or 心付け ("kokorozuke", lit. "pay from the heart").Fact|date=February 2007

Malaysia

Tipping is not customarily done in Malaysia. Service charge of 10% is included in total bill in most air conditioned restaurants.Fact|date=February 2007

Philippines

Tipping is not usually done in the Philippines, except when the customer wants to show appreciation for services rendered. Midrange to high-end restaurants occasionally have a service charge of 10%. In taxis, it is common to add PhP20 to PhP50 on top of the fare.

ingapore

Tipping is not required in Singapore; however it is common for restaurants to levy a 10% service charge before GST.Fact|date=February 2007

outh Korea

Tipping is not the custom in South Korea and it is almost never expected. Many hotels and a few tourist restaurants add 10% service charge on their checks. However, it is deemed customary (although not mandatory) to tip porters and maids in international hotels, and it is always considered a generous gesture to ask taxi drivers to keep the change.Fact|date=February 2007

Taiwan

In Taiwan tipping is rare except when a customer uses a porter at an airport, which is usually 50 New Taiwan Dollars per luggage, or wants to show appreciation for exceptional service. Some restaurants and hotels already add 10% service charges. [Taiwan Government Information Office." [http://www.gio.gov.tw/taiwan-website/5-gp/yearbook/20Tourism.htm Chapter 20: Tourism] ". "Taiwan Yearbook 2006".] The service charge is generally applied at restaurants where the waiter is expected by the employer to pay a great deal of attention to the customer, or if the meal requires assistance from the wait staff (as in some barbecue restaurants).

Oceania

Australia

In Australia, tipping is relatively uncommon and traditionally not encouraged (similar to the UK). Beyond the hospitality industry, no service providers will expect a tip (it can even be considered insulting to do so). In country towns, tipping will often even be regarded as insulting, as it is thought to suggest servitude. In the Australian English, the term "tip" is also the name used for a garbage dump, rather than having anything to do with gratuities. [http://www.brisbane.qld.gov.au/BCC:BASE::pc=PC_1224]

When paying for a transaction with cash, it is acceptable to offer to a seller “keep the change” and avoid a pocket filled with coins. More common is the gesture to drop these coins into a charity tin kept near the cash register to raise money for the service club or charity. When using credit cards, a line is usually included for a tip to be offered if desired, but the practice remains entirely discretionary (it has become common to round restaurant bills up to the nearest dollar or ten-dollar multiple, with the additional amount forming the tip).

The tipping practice of American tourists is increasingly common at some hospitality establishments in larger cities for exceptional service. In recent decades, tip jars have become more widespread in some urban areas although it is still regarded by locals as a personal and optional choice.

Casinos in Australia generally prohibit tipping of gaming staff, as it is considered bribery. (For example, in the state of Tasmania, the Gaming Control Act 1993 states in section 56 (4): "it is a condition of every special employee's licence that the special employee must not solicit or accept any gratuity, consideration or other benefit from a patron in a gaming area.") [ [http://www.thelaw.tas.gov.au/tocview/index.w3p;doc_id=94%2B%2B1993%2BAT%40EN%2B20070406010000 Tasmanian Gaming Control Act 1993] ] Similarly, tipping government officials is not customary and will usually be interpreted as bribery (although a non-monetary gift such as flowers or a card is acceptable if one wishes to acknowledge exceptional service).

In some communities, postmen and garbage collectors are left an annual non-monetary tip (usually beer) at Christmas.

New Zealand

Tipping is not part of New Zealand culture and is often treated with suspicion or actively frowned upon, as many people view it as a largely American custom that over-compensates certain workers while others are left out; additionally there is a feeling that tipping is paying twice for one service. Despite this, some forms of tipping are common, such as rounding up a taxi fare. It is almost as likely, however, that the taxi driver will round the fare down to the nearest dollar. Some cafés keep a jar on the counter marked "tips for staff" in which customers can leave small change. Occasionally tips are given in a restaurant for exceptional service; particularly in the larger cities like Wellington or Auckland. Others may feel that the people who do this are being ostentatious and showing off their wealth. New Zealanders traveling overseas often find the custom difficult and confusing.

However, many New Zealanders travel and live in other countries, often returning to New Zealand; bringing the tipping habit back with them.

In general, people who perform a service in New Zealand, such as waiters and hairdressers, are tipped with a smile and a thank you. This is considered reasonable because their average wage is substantially larger than their American counterparts.

Europe

In the European Union and elsewhere in Europe, tipping practices vary from region to region, although, in general, tipping is not considered obligatory.

Austria

In Austria, tipping is common and, although legally not mandatory, often considered as socially obligatory. Giving 5% to 10% of the total amount is common; more signals exceptionally good service. Paying a multiple of a Euro is usual, for low sums the amount paid is often a multiple of 50 cents (i.e. a bill of 7.80 can be paid as 8 or 8.50).Fact|date=February 2007

Tipping is not practised when the goods are exchanged over the counter (i.e. in fast-food restaurants or at street stalls). Traditionally, the owner of a restaurant (known as "Wirt" in German) does not receive a tip. A tip is known in the German language as "Trinkgeld", which literally translates as 'money for drink'. In similar fashion, the French expression is "pourboire". It is also common practice to tip other service employees, like taxi drivers or hair dressers.

Bulgaria

Tipping, called бакшиш ("bakshish") in Bulgarian, is not the custom in Bulgaria, although one can leave a tip as a sign of appreciation.

Croatia

Tipping is not particularly common, although it may occur in restaurants and bars. Prices are usually already adjusted upwards, and labour laws ensure a minimum wage for all workers, therefore tipping is usually not expected.

A unique practice of tipping exists among the pensioners who receive their pension via mail in rural settlements. They may leave any coinage to the postman who delivers it as a sign of appreciation.Fact|date=February 2007

Czech Republic

Although it is customary to tip in the Czech Republic, it has very little to do with the size of the bill, and more to do with a sign of appreciation.Fact|date=February 2007

Denmark, Sweden and Norway

The service charge is not separated from the bill, but adjusted for in the salary of the person. Traditionally, the tip has not been common, but is being introduced by outside influence. Tipping should only be given as a token of real appreciation for the service. Be aware that the tips will most often be split between the waiters and the kitchen. If you want to thank a specific person, make sure to tell them it is a personal gift. Taxi drivers do not expect tips, any extra service (such as carrying bags) will be listed on the receipt according to rate. In this region, tipping is sometimes referred to as "driks" (Norwegian) but usually just "tips", "drikkepenge" (Danish) or "dricks" (Swedish), meaning "for drinks".

Finland

In Finland tipping, known as "tippi" or "juomaraha" (literally "drink money") is entirely optional and almost unheard of outside restaurants and bars. Coat checkers generally have a service fee. Tips are always paid in cash. Bar patrons may often tip the bouncer when leaving for satisfactory service in the establishment in general. Consequently tips are most often pooled. Bars often have a brass "tippikello", "tip bell" near the counter. upon receiving a tip, the service person strikes it with the largest denomination of coin given in the tip.

Tipping government and municipality service personnel for any service is not allowed, and could lead to legal problems.

France

In France, service charge is always included, and so tipping, or "le pourboire" (lit. "for a drink"), is not expected. It is however not at all uncommon to leave some small change on the table.

Germany

In Germany, tips ("das Trinkgeld", lit. "drink money") are expected in many situations. In bars, restaurants (except fast food places without table service), guided tours, taxicabs and sometimes barber shops, tips are expected to be about 5 - 10% of the total amount if the guest was satisfied with the service. The owner of the business was usually not tipped even if he served his customers personally, but this is changing. When the bill is presented, pay any multiple of 0.50 Euro, because very poor tips are considered rudeFact|date=July 2007. If the customer does not want to give an appropriate amount, he should rather give no tip at all. However, it is acceptable to leave cents in change money behind adding "Stimmt so!" (pronounced: "shtimt zo"; meaning: "I'm OK with this").

Public toilet ("WC" in German) attendants are often tipped €0.30 to €0.50, usually by leaving the money on a plate by the door.

Greece

In Greece tip is known as "filodorima" (meaning "gift for a friend"). Tipping traditionally is not based on a predetermined percentage. Customers usually leave a tip to the 'maitre',waiters,valets and bell boys, varying from few coins to large amounts of money, according to how satisfied they are by the service. In some cases, waiters gain more money from tips than their wage. Tipping to taxi drivers is uncommon.

Hungary

Tips are given in Hungary for some services: in restaurants, in bars, to cab drivers, to hairdressers, and often to people that fix things around the house, like plumbers and electricians. Tips are called "borravaló", "a little something for wine", in Hungarian.Fact|date=February 2007

Although not legally required, social norms encourage that tips are given. The amount varies by profession: in restaurants the normal amount is around 5% to 10% of the total bill, but hairdressers can expect 25% or more in tips, since they are expected to make more money in tips than in wages.Fact|date=February 2007

Additionally there is the custom of "hálapénz" (gratitude money) that may be classified as a tipping system in Hungarian healthcare. Because of the comprehensive healthcare system where everyone receives healthcare for free, and the generally low wages for health care professionals, doctors and nurses can often expect to receive fairly substantial sums of money or goods from their patients.Fact|date=February 2007

Iceland

In Iceland tipping ("þjórfé", lit. "drink money") is rare. Service charges are generally included in the bill.DHL. " [http://www.dhl-usa.com/IntlSvcs/Cultural/CulturalTips.asp?nav=InternationalSeunrvice/CultTips Cultural Tips] ." "How to Ship Internationally".]

Ireland

In the Republic of Ireland, tipping has been established as a custom since the early sixties, and has become much more commonplace in the period of increased wealth through the Celtic Tiger. Many people working in the service industry, particularly in restaurants, would expect a tip even when providing poor service. It is increasingly common to tip hairdressers/barbers and for a taxi ride; the fare would normally be rounded up. It is not customary to tip bar staff, or any 'over the counter' server, though often waiters in pubs (known as lounge staff) are tipped a token amount. It is not usual to tip in a restaurant when a service charge is included (which is the norm for large groups), except in the case of exceptional service. Where no service charge is indicated, a tip of about 10% to 12% is appropriate for good service.Fact|date=August 2008

Italy

Tips ("la mancia") are customary in Italy, but not essential. The tradition of the tip remains impervious to change, even though café or restaurant prices now more and more often include both cover charge and service. On paying the bill, if it is paid in cash it is a matter of leaving a few notes from the change, or saying to the waiter "va bene così" ("it's all right"), when the difference between the amount paid and the actual bill automatically becomes the tip. When using a credit card, there are two possibilities: if the total on the credit card slip is the same as the bill, again leave some notes as a tip; but if the amount or the total are blank, simply round up the total to include the tip when signing the credit card slip.Fact|date=February 2007. Tipping in bars and discotheques is not expected and very rare.

The Netherlands

In The Netherlands, tips, or "de fooi" in Dutch, are common in restaurants. Tips are expected to be around 5% to 10% of the total amount (depending on the quality of service), unless the service has been poor. Tips are generally not expected in bars, but are not uncommon. In addition, in the holiday season, it is customary for the newspaper delivery person to receive a tip of around 2.50 to 5.Fact|date=February 2007

Romania

The tip is usually 10% of the bill and is expected in restaurants, coffee shops, taxi, hair dresser. Many other shops not frequented by westerners refuse tips, perceiving them as a form of bribery.

Russia

In Russia, tipping (На чай, "na chai", or Чаевые, "chaevie", lit. "for a tea", in Russian) is not necessary. Still, it is necessary to pay about 10% tips in restaurants, especially in Moscow. Some restaurants may include service into the amount, but it's very rare. Tipping is not considered customary for taxis.Fact|date=February 2007

erbia

Tipping is known as "напојница"/"napojnica" or, more colloquially, "бакшиш"/"bakšiš" ("baksheesh") in Serbian. Tips are not considered a strict social obligation, however leaving a tip (10-15%) is usually expected in restaurants if the customer is not dissatisfied with the service. Tips are also accepted in bars and taxi cabs (usually by rounding up the amount paid).Fact|date=July 2007

Kosovo

In Kosovo generally tipping is not expected by anyone. Most likely locals are not expected to tip. However, foreigners and visitors are often welcome to tip. Tipping varies by the location and the type of the restaurant. Restaurants near the international institutions usually have more international visitors so tipping may be common, but not necessarily expected.

lovenia

Tipping is not customary in Slovenia and traditionally it is almost never done. In recent times, however, high-tourist areas have begun to accept tips, which are welcomed but not obligatory. In such cases, the amount is typically 10 percent, but may range higher in exceptional circumstances. [" [http://www.tripadvisor.com/Travel-g274862-s606/Slovenia:Tipping.And.Etiquette.html Inside Slovenia: Tipping & Etiquette] ." "TripAdvisor". Retrieved 2007-04-22.] [" [http://www.concierge.com/destination/slovenia/facts/ Slovenia Travel Information: Fact Sheet] ." "Concierge.com". Retrieved 2007-04-22.]

pain

Tipping is not customary in Spain, but frequently done among natives. In bars and small restaurants, Spaniards leave as a tip the small change they receive in a plate after paying the bill. No tips are expected outside the restaurant business.

witzerland

Swiss workers enjoy a very high per capita income and minimum wage. As a result of this and modern cultural influences, tipping is typically low (for example a maximum of CHF5 regardless of bill size), if not non-existent. Tipping is also very rare outside of restaurants and is even rare in bars.Fact|date=February 2007

Turkey

In Turkey, tipping, or "bahşiş" (lit. gift, from Persian word بخشش) is usually optional and not customary in many places. However, a tip of 5-10% is expected in restaurants, which is usually paid by "leaving the change". Cab drivers usually don't expect to be tipped, though, rounding the fare upward would be appreciated. In hotels, a small change as a tip would be enough make most porters happy. [" [http://www.turkeytravelplanner.com/details/Money/Tipping.html Tipping in Turkey] "]

United Kingdom

Tipping throughout the UK is not usually expected, but the practice is becoming more common for some services (i.e. restaurants). A tip may be offered for good service in a restaurant, barber's, hairdresser's or for a taxi journey but it is generally not understood to be expected.

Tipping a policeman, fireman, nurse, doctor or other public-sector workers is prohibited and in the case of the police may be considered attempted bribery. For other public servants, however, a box of chocolates, flowers or possibly a bottle of wine may be considered appropriate as an expression of special gratitude. Some private companies may require their employees to refuse tips for various reasons. For instance, the John Lewis Partnership states to employees that customers should not be expected to pay more for good service, and that any tips that are received should be handed in. In private members clubs tipping is often forbidden to avoid embarrassment for both staff and patrons.

In some table service restaurants, a 'service charge' is common (and sometimes added to the bill, in which case there is no expectation to tip further), but not compulsory. Unlike in many other countries, there is no percentage perceived to be 'correct' when tipping. However, 10% is a considered a good minimum within the restaurant industry and is generally considered the default. In self-service establishments, tips are not usually given, except in exceptional circumstances.Fact|date=February 2007 Many restaurants will allow tips to be added to a credit card bill, but it is generally considered better to leave cash at the table. The reason for this is that cash is deemed to have been given to the waiting staff directly, whilst credit card payments and cheques are legally payable to the restaurant. Whilst a tip given by credit card or cheque will almost always be passed on to the waiting staff, it is legal for restaurants to pay their staff less than the minimum wage if the amount given in tips via the restaurant management augments their wages to the level of the minimum wage.

Tipping the delivery person upon arrival of a take-away is also quite common especially when delivery is fast.

It is not normal to tip for drinks in a pub or bar, although offering to buy the bar tender a drink is considered acceptable and they may then "take" (money) for the value of a drink (which is in effect taking a tip). In cases where the pub is also a restaurant, the serving staff may be tipped. It is less usual to tip in cafés and coffee shops than in restaurants.

In some establishments, tips are kept individually by the waiter or waitress, whereas in others they may be pooled and divided amongst all the staff. In other instances, tips may be set aside for some other purpose for the benefit of the staff, such as to fund a staff party or trip.Fact|date=February 2007

North America

Canada

Tipping in Canada is similar to that in the United States due to the close cultural nature of the two countries. For example, while tipping for waiters in the United States is 15-20% for good service, waiters in Canada also receive 10-20% for good service.

Quebec and Ontario allow employers to pay lower minimum wages to workers who would reasonably be expected to be receiving tips. [" [http://www.gov.mb.ca/labour/labmgt/resbr/wages/minwage.html Minimum Wage Rates Across Canada] ." "Manitoba Labour and Immigration".] In Ontario, the minimum wage is $8.75 per hour, with the exceptions for: Students under 18 years old and employed for not more than 28 hours a week, who are paid $8.20 per hour; and Liquor servers, who are paid $7.60 per hour. [" [http://www.labour.gov.on.ca/english/news/2006/06-14.html] ." "Ontario's Minimum Wage Rises Tomorrow".]

Workers who receive tips are legally required to report the income to the Canada Revenue Agency and pay income tax on it. However, many workers have been known to not report any income from tips at all or, perhaps more commonly, to "lowball" the figure. In response, the CRA has vowed that it will closely check the tax returns of individuals that it would reasonably expect to be receiving tips to ensure that the tips are reported, and that the amount reported on the returns is realistic. [McCracken, D.L. " [http://www.halifaxlive.com/artman/publish/printer_tax_230505_112.shtml Revenue Canada to Tax Wait Staff's Tips] ." "HalifaxLive.com". 2005-05-23.]

Many places where there is gambling involved and one wins a large amount of money, a tip is expected as a thank you for the dealer or salesperson.(eg. lottery retailer, casino, bingo hall, etc.)

In Atlantic provinces of Canada such as Newfoundland and Nova Scotia there is a stronger UK influence. Tips here tend to be smaller and may simply be rounded up to the nearest dollar. Canadian seniors who winter in the USA, known as snowbirds, also tend to have the older Canadian tradition of smaller tips and may be seen as miserly in American restaurants.

Mexico

Tipping in Mexico is also similar to the United States. In Mexico a tip is known as "una propina" in Spanish. It is usually from 10 to 15%.

Restaurants

Meals have a 10% to 15% tip (this includes fast food deliveries). This tip is usually left by most people in restaurants, although it is not so common in street restaurants or stands, where the tenders usually have a can or box where people deposit coins.

Bars

In Mexican bars and night clubs it is often seen that they charge directly into the bill the 15% of the total amount (taxes included) which is illegal in most cases because of the imposition of the tip and because they calculate the 15% with taxes included.

In large groups, or in night clubs the barmen expect the customers to deposit their tip in a cup left on the table before serving the drinks. This way, the service they give is in function with the tip they received.

"Viene vienes" ("Car guards")

It is also customary to give a tip to the person who sometimes guard the car as if they were valet parking; in Mexico these people are often called "viene viene" (literally: "comes, comes") and usually people give them from 3 to 20 Mexican pesos depending on the zone, although "viene vienes" sometimes ask for bigger sums of money when the car is left close to a night life area.

Retail stores (supermarkets)

In medium and large retail stores such as Wal-Mart there are uniformed helpers, usually children or the elderly, who bag the products just after the clerk has scanned them. This role is called "cerillo" (Spanish for "match"). It is common for these helpers to not have a base salary, so all the money earned is from the tips people give them. Most customers give from 2 to 5 Mexican pesos depending on the quantity of products. "Cerillos" also put the bags in the cart and if the load is large they can even help bringing it to the car and unloading the bags; in these cases they normally receive more than 15 pesos.

Others

Tipping is not expected in cabs or buses, except when it is a tour.In some populated Mexican restaurants wandering musicians enter, play, and expect the customers to pay something, although this is voluntary. In filling stations, the workers usually get from 2 to 5 pesos for every gasoline load. In stadiums people give a small tip to the person that shows the place where they should sit. Tips are also given to bell-boys, to barbers and people that work in similar services.

United States

Tipping is widely practiced in the United States and is considered to be an obligation in many situations. The practice varies widely, but in general, gratuities are given when services are rendered by an employee in the restaurant, bar, hotel, and/or taxi industries.

Some customers do not like the custom of tipping, as they believe that it is an attempt by employers to shift the burden of paying employee wages onto the customer. Many consider the custom to be antiquated, adding an unnecessary level of complication for the customer. As some businesses advertise the fact that their employees work for tips, some people believe this is a ploy to encourage customers to leave tips by making them feel remorse for a server's financial hardship. Others feel this practice is unfair to taxpayers who earn set wages, as many service people do not report 100% of their cash tips to the government. Another objection is that as restaurant tips are usually calculated as a percentage of the charges, different tips are given for the same amount and quality of service. For example, a customer who orders lobster would have to pay a larger tip than a customer who orders a hamburger.

Where tipping is common, employees often receive low salaries and the majority of compensation is from tips. Recent laws passed in several states ("e.g." California and Washington) have resulted in servers making minimum wage, but elsewhere, United States wage laws allow the option of lower than minimum wage pay for occupations where tipping is customary.

The amount of a tip is usually at the discretion of the person receiving the service, but is standardized in traditional restaurants to the point where many add set service charges for large parties (see "Restaurants" below). For most of the 20th century, it was considered inappropriate for the owner of any establishment to accept any tips, but this standard has mostly vanished.

Restaurants

Tipping is customary in restaurants having traditional table service. While the amount of a tip is at the discretion of the person receiving the service, the customary tip until the 1980's was from 10 to 15 percent of the total bill before tax, for good to excellent service, and since then has risen to 15 to 20%. The higher percentages are often expected at more expensive establishments.

When a server has not adequately addressed issues a customer has with service, the patron sometimes speaks to management to have the problems corrected before considering reducing the tip significantly. In extreme cases of awful service, people sometimes leave no tip. Some people show displeasure through the practice of leaving a very small tip (such as one penny), though this insult is incorrect etiquette.

For large groups, such as six or more, many restaurants add a standard predetermined service charge (~18%) in lieu of the gratuity. [ [http://pqasb.pqarchiver.com/USAToday/access/887933271.html?dids=887933271:887933271&FMT=ABS&FMTS=ABS:FT&date=Aug+26%2C+2005&author=Laura+Bly&pub=USA+TODAY&edition=&startpage=D.1&desc=The+tipping+point+%3B+Will+mandatory+service+charges+replace+voluntary+gratuities%3F "The tipping point: Will service charges replace voluntary gratuities?", USA Today. 2005-08-25.] ] Reputable restaurants usually post their policy on a sign or the menu, or require servers to inform their patrons of such charges before they order. This charge can be verified by the customer on the bill to avoid double tipping. Customers have a right to negotiate, alter, or refuse charges which were hidden until the bill arrived. In the case of excellent service, a customer may include an extra tip even if the establishment has added the service charge, as the server usually has no choice regarding this policy. If service to a large party is poor, a customer may try to negotiate an alternate service charge with management.

Standard gratuities are not given at buffet-style restaurants. However, if patrons order beverages from the server, then a nominal tip such as $1 each may be considered. Some restaurants add a standard service charge even for buffet service for large parties, though many consider this inappropriate when there is no table service.

Tipping on wine with a meal requires some discretion and judgment, as many restaurants mark up their wine 200 to 400%Fact|date=August 2007. Tipping etiquette websites (e.g. Findalink.net/tippingetiquette, winespectator.com, bremercommunications.com, betidy.com, etc.) suggest a tip of 15% on the meal before tax, and 5-10% on the wine, especially if the total wine bill is near or exceeds the cost of the meal.

Many traditional restaurants now offer take-out and curbside service, and standards for tipping for such services vary. Some advocate optional tipping, [" [http://ask.yahoo.com/20030709.html How much should you tip on a carry-out food order?] ." Ask Yahoo.] and others say 5-10% is appropriate. [Karen Fernau, [http://www.azcentral.com/home/takeout/articles/0616goodtogo16.html "Should you tip for takeout? Sometimes."] The Arizona Republic, 6-16-2004.] People sometimes tip more for exceptional service or difficult orders.

Tipping at fast food restaurants and coffeehouses such as Starbucks (where there is no table service), is not necessary, despite the common appearance of tip jars ("a.k.a." "guilt cans"Fact|date=September 2008).

It is common for servers to "tip out" portions of their tip receipts to support staff like bussers. Bartenders usually are tipped separately by the patrons ordering drinks at the bar and receive a tip out generally ranging from 1-2% of the servers' total sales.

Bars

When purchasing alcoholic beverages at a bar it is customary to tip. One dollar per drink is customary. If a bartender is taking special care to take and fill your drink orders quickly at a busy bar where others may be waiting for service, a tip in the higher range is appropriate. Drinks which are more complex than a draught beer or simple mixed cocktail may also warrant a greater tip.

Hotels

Bellmen are customarily tipped on a basis of a fixed amount (usually a few dollars) per bag carried, and are often tipped for deliveries (food, boxes, faxes) as well. Room-service personnel at most American hotels expect tips, anywhere between 10% to 15% of the price (before tax) of what was ordered. It should be noted that many hotels automatically add a service fee to room service meals. The customer should verify this in order to avoid double tipping. A small tip for the housekeeping staff is discretionary. Tipping the front desk staff is almost never done unless the service is exceptional.Fact|date=February 2007

Taxicabs

Most U.S. guides recommend 15% of the fare, more for extra services or heavy luggage. [" [http://tip20.com/div/con/index.html Tipping Standards (United States)] ", "Tip20! Service Industry Resource". Retrieved on 2008-08-29.] [" [http://www.tipping.org/tips/taxi.html] ","The Original Tipping Page". Retrieved on 2008-08-29.] [" [http://www.vidaamericana.com/english/tipping.html] ", "Living American.com". Retrieved on 2008-08-29.]

Delivered meals

The driver is often tipped 10 to 20%. A greater tip can be given if the driver has to drive in inclement weather (e.g. snow), carry heavy loads, and/or climb flights of stairs. This issue is complicated by establishments sometimes charging a delivery fee (usually $1-2 per order), which is similar to a service charge, although in many cases (e.g. pizza delivery establishments such as Dominos) the driver gets no part of the delivery fee, and may be under-tipped as a result.Fact|date=February 2007

Car washes

If a person hand dries the car, he/she is sometimes tipped.

Hairdressing

For a haircut or salon service, it is customary to tip the barber or stylist 10% to 20%.Fact|date=February 2007

Valets

At restaurants or hotels where the customer valets their car, it is customary to tip the valet $1-5.

Tattoos and body piercing

It is also customary for a customer to tip a tattoo artist or body piercer. Although tipping for these professions is customary, there is no standard amount.

Christmas/holiday tips

Many service staff are tipped annually during the Christmas season, such as newspaper carriers, house cleaners and pool cleaners. Some people also tip their local mail carrier in this manner, not knowing that it is illegal to do so (see government workers below).Fact|date=February 2007

In some large cities, the staff of apartment buildings, such as building superintendents, porters, concierges and doormen, commonly receive similar annual tips.Fact|date=February 2007

Government employees

Under United States federal law it is considered bribery to tip government employees. However, they are permitted to receive non-monetary gifts less than or equal to $20.00. Fact|date=February 2007

Other

Many reputable retailers forbid their employees to accept tips (although this is illegal in some states, such as California, since state law states "tips are the property of whom they are given, and employers are not allowed to require employees to refuse, give, or share their tips with anyone" [ [http://www.palmbeachpost.com/accent/content/accent/browning/9.html Palm Beach Post: Palm Beach & Treasure Coast news, sports, entertainment, jobs, cars, homes ] ] . Tips are not generally given to parcel-delivery workers, and acceptance of tips may be forbidden by state laws and/or the employer. No tip is expected for retail clerks who bag one's groceries or carry one's purchases to the car. Fact|date=May 2008

outh America

Argentina

There is no obligation to tip in Argentina. But leaving a 10% or less tipping is considered polite.

Bolivia

Service charges are included with the bill. Still, a small tip, around 5% or so, is sometimes given, and is considered polite.

Brazil

The customary tip at restaurants is 10% for good service, although a few restaurants charge a mandatory service fee for large parties. It is usually not expected in cabs. Tipping a delivery worker is incredibly rare. In fact, most delivery companies will ask the client how he or she is going to pay for the product so that the exact change could be provided. However, it should be noted that many restaurants include a 10% delivery charge in the note. Such a charge often depends on the municipality.Fact|date=February 2007

Chile

There is no obligation to tip in Chile. This was not the case until 1981, when law number 7.388 was derogated. It stated that tipping was mandatory at places like restaurants, and the tip amount should be between 10% and 20% of the bill. Since then, it is usually assumed that customers will leave a tip of 10%, if the service is considered satisfactory.

Ecuador

Bars, restaurants and hotels include a 10% service charge in the bill, so tipping is not required. In the case of restaurants, it is customary to leave some spare change in reward for good service. Some restaurants will include a small piece of paper along with the bill, in which the client can specify a tip if they are paying with credit card.

Paraguay

Service charges are included with the bill, and tipping is uncommon.

Caribbean

Trinidad and Tobago

Tipping has not been a custom, but is become more commonplace in recent times.

*Restaurants: Some restaurants, especially those in hotels or those that serve foreign tourists expect a tip. Most do not.
*Taxicabs: Only airport taxis expect a tip. Local taxis do not.

In popular culture

* In the movie Reservoir Dogs, a heated discussion ensues when Mr. Pink refuses to tip.

References

External links

* [http://thetyee.ca/Life/2004/08/16/TippingTrouble/ The Trouble with Tipping]
* [http://www.Tip20.com/ Tip20! Service Industry and Consumer Information]
* [http://www.straightdope.com/classics/a1_333.html The Straight Dope: What is the origin of tipping?]
* [http://www.straightdope.com/mailbag/mtiplesstax.html Straight Dope Staff Report: Should a restaurant tip be based on the check before or after tax?]
* [http://www.tipping.org/ The Original Tipping Page]
* [http://www.make-better-tips.com/waiter-waitress-tips.php Make Better Tips]
* [http://www.newyorker.com/talk/content/articles/050905ta_talk_surowiecki The New Yorker: The controversial end of tipping in one N.Y. restaurant]
* [http://gospain.about.com/od/spanishlife/qt/tippinginspain.htm Tipping in Spain]
* [http://ask.yahoo.com/20070116.html Ask Yahoo!: How did the practice of tipping begin?]
* [http://www.protravelgear.com/protravelgear/Images/pdfs/Tip_Guide1.pdf Downloadable and Foldable Global Gratuity Guide]
* [http://www.nytimes.com/2008/10/12/magazine/12tipping-t.html?hp San Diego restaurant abandons accepting tips]


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