Tipping is a common practice in the United States, where customers are expected to leave a gratuity for service staff in restaurants, hotels, and other establishments. The amount of the tip is typically a percentage of the bill, and it is customary to tip between 15% and 20% for good service.
There are a number of reasons why tipping is so prevalent in the United States. One reason is that tipped employees often earn below the minimum wage, and tips make up a significant portion of their income. Another reason is that tipping is seen as a way to show appreciation for good service. However, tipping has gotten aggressively out-of-hand in America that many states are facing a tipping point when it comes to the use of the tip credit system.
In 2022, Washingtonians voted to approve a ballot measure that would eliminate the tip credit. Read all about it HERE.
Nevertheless, tipping can also be a source of controversy. Some people argue that it is unfair to expect customers to subsidize the wages of tipped employees, and that employers should pay their employees a fair wage without relying on tips. Others argue that tipping is a voluntary gesture and that customers should only tip if they feel that the service was good.
Here are some of the pros and cons of tipping:
Pros of Tipping:
- Tipping can help to ensure that service staff are paid a fair wage.
- Tipping can motivate service staff to provide good service.
- Tipping can be a way to show appreciation for good service.
Cons of Tipping:
- Tipping can be seen as a way for employers to avoid paying their employees a fair wage.
- Tipping can be a source of stress for customers who feel pressured to tip, even if they don’t feel that the service was good.
- Tipping can be a barrier to entry for people who cannot afford to tip.
Ultimately, the decision of whether or not to tip is a personal one. However, it is important to be aware of the pros and cons of tipping before making a decision.
