Additional Coverage:
- 15 People You Never Have to Tip (Do You Agree With #9?) (financebuzz.com)
Feeling Tipped Off? When It’s Okay to Keep Your Cash
If you’re starting to feel like every transaction comes with a digital tip jar these days, you’re not alone. The phenomenon dubbed “tipflation” has spread its tendrils into everything from self-serve kiosks at your favorite fast-food spot to retail checkouts where a tip was once unheard of. Navigating the murky waters of modern tipping culture can be downright stressful, especially when many of us are trying to tighten our belts.
While showing appreciation through a tip is a time-honored tradition for some workers, there are plenty of instances where you can, and probably should, skip the extra payment without a pang of guilt. Here’s a rundown of situations where your wallet can breathe a sigh of relief:
1. When the Tip is Already Included
Ever seen that “automatic gratuity” line on your restaurant bill, especially for larger parties? That 20% (or whatever the establishment decides) is already covering the waitstaff’s tip. While an extra little something for truly exceptional service is always a kind gesture, don’t feel obligated to double-tip, particularly if you’re trying to manage your dining budget.
2. Teachers
Our educators work tirelessly, and showing them appreciation is wonderful! However, cash tips are generally frowned upon and can even violate school employment policies. Instead, consider a thoughtful gift during the holidays or at the end of the school year.
3. Coaches
Similar to teachers, coaches dedicate their time and energy to our kids. Rather than a tip, a meaningful gift is a more appropriate way to express gratitude for their positive impact.
4. Medical Staff
From the nurses who provide round-the-clock care to the doctors overseeing your health, medical professionals are invaluable. While you might feel immense gratitude, tipping is not expected or appropriate. A heartfelt thank-you, a positive review, or a gift to the department can be a wonderful alternative.
5. Accountants
As tax season approaches, you’re gathering documents for your accountant, but you don’t need to add cash to the pile. Accountants are professional service providers who bill for their time; a tip is not part of the equation.
6. Lawyers
Much like accountants, lawyers are professional employees who charge for their services. Tipping is not customary. Appreciation can be shown through gifts or other forms of acknowledgment for their hard work.
7. Package Delivery Workers
Those friendly faces bringing your online orders to your doorstep usually aren’t expecting a tip. You’ve already covered shipping, so this isn’t an additional expense you need to factor in.
8. Cashiers for Takeout
If you’re picking up your Friday night takeout, you’re doing the legwork yourself. While delivery drivers certainly deserve a tip, the cashier handing you your bag doesn’t typically require one for a pickup order.
9. Bartenders at an Open Bar
Attending a wedding or party with an open bar means the host is covering the drink costs. They’ve also likely handled the gratuity for the bar service. So, even if there’s a tip jar, you’re not obligated to contribute.
10. Buffet Attendants
While buffet attendants might serve you food, they operate differently from traditional table service. Tipping them in the same way you would a waiter isn’t standard practice.
11. Home Service Technicians
Plumbers, electricians, and HVAC technicians provide essential home services. They typically charge for their work and don’t expect a tip on top of their fees.
12. Workers in Other Countries
Tipping customs vary wildly across the globe. Before you travel, a quick search on local etiquette can save you from an awkward situation – some cultures don’t tip at all!
13. Government Workers
Renewing your license or getting a building permit? It’s best to avoid tipping government employees. It’s unnecessary and could even be misconstrued as an attempt at bribery.
14. Salaried Workers
A good rule of thumb: tip those who often rely on hourly wages and tips, like servers or housekeepers. For those in salaried positions with a steady annual income, a tip isn’t usually expected.
15. Flight Attendants
While they serve you on your journey, flight attendants are not dependent on tips. In fact, some airlines may even prohibit them from accepting gratuities.
The Bottom Line
While tipping is an important part of showing appreciation in certain scenarios, it’s not a universal obligation. Don’t feel pressured to tip every time a screen prompts you. Knowing when to confidently keep your cash can help ease financial stress and keep more money in your pocket.
Read More About This Story:
- 15 People You Never Have to Tip (Do You Agree With #9?) (financebuzz.com)