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Knowing how much to tip can be stressful, especially if you feel the service wasn't up to par.
If your server is helping you enjoy a meal, is friendly, and is accommodating to your needs, giving them a tip is expected. Whether you like to tip 20% or more, sometimes that's hard to do.
Considering many servers rely on tips to make their paycheck stretch further, is it ever really OK not to tip them? The truth is that there are some big reasons you'll want to skip the tip to make a point.
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Your server keeps ignoring you
It's not a lot to ask for things like silverware, a refill on your drink, or a to-go box, but some servers just don't pay attention to your specific needs, no matter how big or small they are.
It's OK not to tip (or provide as much of a tip) when you've been ignored multiple times. If it's not about being short-staffed but just plain disorganization or, even worse, a rude server, tipping becomes one way to show your disapproval.
Your server verbally disrespects you
It's never OK to treat anyone with disrespect, no matter which side of the transaction you're on, but when a person insults you, a tip isn't necessary.
Perhaps the waitress made a statement about your appearance, where they assumed you lived, or even about your children. These are all good reasons not to tip at all.
You had a very long wait
Staff shortages can impact wait times and lead to bad service. For many people, this is an accepted part of the job. But what if your wait was due to people standing around and chatting or if your order arrived at your table long after the tables around you?
There are times when an excessive wait means you can tip less. However, don't do this if your order is long and complex or requires special preparations.
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Your server won't address your issues
You have a problem with your order. No matter what it is, you have the right to make a statement to the person serving you and expect them to provide a solution. That solution could be simply explaining the situation or replacing your item.
However, when the server fails to offer a solution or address your concerns, it's time to reconsider coming back. Not leaving a tip could be a necessary step in situations where the problem is serious or occurs multiple times.
You're just picking up an order
Tipping on takeout orders isn't always necessary. If the meal is prepared and packaged by the kitchen staff rather than a waitress at the restaurant, tipping isn't necessary because the staff member's earnings aren't based on it.
However, in many situations, it can be just as time-consuming for a specific packer handling car side orders to ready your order as it is serving you at the table. In situations where this person is being compensated through tips or you have a reasonably large order, you should tip.
You're purchasing a pre-packaged product
Sometimes, tipping doesn't make sense, such as when picking up a prepackaged order, like a box of cookies, at a counter.
In this situation, the server isn't likely putting together your order or doing anything but putting it in a bag. In these situations, tipping isn't necessary.
The staff doesn't want you there
In some situations, you can tell your presence isn't desired. It could be that the server just wants to leave for the day, or they're having a bad day. They toss the menu at you, perhaps even roll their eyes at your order.
A part of the server's job is to make you feel at home and welcome, and while they cannot fully control what happens in the kitchen, they do control this aspect of their work. This could be a time when, in very bad situations, you just don't tip.
Your allergy concerns were ignored
This is a big deal. We're not talking about asking for a new batch of French fries, claiming you need them to be without salt just because you want them hot.
Imagine having an allergy to a specific ingredient, telling the waitress about it, and even confirming with the person who brought your food to the table, and still experiencing illness.
In a situation like this, multiple people have dropped the ball and put your health on the line. It's OK not to tip — and to tell the manager about the incident.
When you've hired a professional to provide a service to you
It's not necessary to provide a tip to anyone who's not truly serving you. If you're hiring an attorney, a plumber, or even a doctor for your needs, you don't need to tip.
These professionals charge you a fee for the service they provide. They don't expect or need a tip on top of that.
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You're receiving counter service
Going to a fast food location for a meal (whether through the drive-thru or inside) doesn't warrant a tip. Those working at these locations are paid hourly or on a salary and don't require a tip.
Even when you're in the drive-thru lane at Starbucks, and you're handed a digital tablet with a tip line to sign, you don't have to tip. Perhaps save that for someone who goes above and beyond for you.
The hairstylist destroyed your hair
Tipping at the barber or hair salon is a common practice and often a big part of the earning capacity of those individuals. Yet, when that perm goes wrong, or the color is wrong, consider tipping less.
In this situation, you may have received rushed service, or the person mixing the chemicals wasn't paying attention. No matter what, bring this one up to the salon manager so they can fix it.
Gratuity is already added to the bill
You're bringing a group of 10 to lunch, and you notice the bill already factors in a 20% tip for parties over eight. In this situation, you're already paying a tip. You don't need to pay more.
Now, there are some situations where the tip may be a low percentage, and you want to tip at a higher rate. In that case, go for it when the server has proven to deserve it. Otherwise, the standard rule is that you don't have to go further if it's already included.
It's an open-bar event
Do you tip the bar staff at an open bar? Not necessarily, since the host or hostess of the event is likely to provide that person a tip at the end of the night. Even when there's a tip jar present, don't feel like you have to do so.
That's especially true when this is supposed to be a free event for you. A tip isn't out of the question if the person goes well above the call of duty.
Your server takes multiple smoke breaks while serving you
It's common for servers to get breaks while they have customers. Otherwise, they may never get a chance to sit down.
However, if you notice that your server continues to step outside while waiting on you (perhaps even propping open the back door and keeping their cigarette lit), that's going to make it tough for you to want to tip.
The same applies to a server who's repeatedly on the phone or otherwise engaged in non-related duties.
The server was discriminatory in any way
Another important time to make a statement occurs when the server is discriminatory toward your race, gender, lifestyle, culture, or any other factor. Simply, they don't get to treat you poorly or make side comments to you.
If you know this is happening, bring it up to the manager. That's especially true when you feel threatened by what they are saying.
Pro tip: If you're looking to reduce how much money you spend on dining out without sacrificing any restaurant trips, consider using one of these tips to stretch your restaurant budget.
Bottom line
Tipping is an important part of a person's earnings for the hard work they put into meeting your needs.
If you're thinking about not leaving a tip, your first step should be to bring the problem to the manager's attention and then decide if you should skip it. Saying something can make a significant improvement in the location, staff, and even your experience.
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