What Is the Normal Tip Percentage for Services?

Tipping is a custom in many service industries, particularly in the United States. It supplements the income of service professionals and allows customers to show appreciation for services received.

Common Tipping Percentages

For standard dining experiences at sit-down restaurants, a widely accepted tipping range is 15% to 20% of the pre-tax bill. This percentage serves as a general guideline, with the higher end reserved for service that exceeds expectations, while the lower end is suitable for good service.

Tipping for Specific Services

Tipping norms extend beyond traditional dining, with varying expectations across different service categories. For food delivery, a common practice is to tip a flat rate of $3 to $5 per order, or between 10% and 20% of the total order. Hair stylists and barbers generally receive 15% to 20% of the service fee. If multiple individuals assist, such as an assistant who shampoos hair, an additional $3 to $5 is customary.

When using rideshare services, a tip of 10% to 20% of the total fare is a common guideline. For hotel staff, typical tips include $1 to $5 per night for housekeepers, $1 to $2 per bag for bellhops, and $5 to $10 for concierges. Bartenders typically receive $1 to $2 per drink for beer or wine, or 15% to 20% of the total bill if a tab is open. For more intricate cocktails, a higher tip per drink, perhaps $2 to $3, is often appropriate. Coffee shop baristas often receive a smaller tip, such as $1 to $2.

Factors Affecting Tip Amounts

Several factors can influence a customer’s decision to adjust the standard tip percentage. The quality of service is a main determinant, with exceptional service prompting a higher tip and unsatisfactory service leading to a reduced amount. The complexity of the service, such as special requests or extensive modifications, can also warrant a more generous tip. While the bill size correlates with the tip amount, for very small bills, a higher percentage might be given to ensure a meaningful tip, such as $2-$4 for a small food delivery order.

For large groups, an automatic gratuity may be applied to the bill, influencing the customer’s individual tipping decision. Although this charge is added, customers may still choose to add an additional tip for outstanding service. Ultimately, the final tip amount involves personal discretion, reflecting the customer’s perceived value and appreciation for the service provided.

Understanding Service Charges and Gratuities

In certain situations, a service charge or gratuity may already be included in the bill. An automatic gratuity is a predetermined percentage, often 15% to 20%, added to the bill by the establishment, typically for large dining parties of six or more people. This charge is considered a service charge by the Internal Revenue Service (IRS) and is treated as non-tip wages for employees, subject to payroll taxes. Unlike discretionary tips, these mandatory charges are part of the establishment’s revenue.

Some establishments may also include a general “service charge” which covers various operational costs and may or may not be directly distributed to the service staff. It is important for customers to review their bills carefully to identify any pre-added charges to avoid inadvertently double-tipping. If an automatic gratuity or service charge is already included, adding an additional tip is generally not expected but can be done for truly exceptional service. This additional amount, if given, would be a voluntary tip, distinct from the mandatory service charge.