what to know
- Tipping in restaurants and lounges may be standard for some, but a new study suggests that most Americans are fed up with this social action and confused about how much to give.
- A recent Bankrate survey found that roughly two-thirds of Americans hold a negative view of tipping.
- Our sister network NBC 4 New York spoke with New Yorkers to find out what they thought about the practice of tipping.
NEW YORK — Tipping in restaurants and lounges may be standard for some, but a new study suggests that most Americans are fed up with this social action and confused about how much to give.
A recent Bankrate survey found that roughly two-thirds of Americans hold a negative view of tipping. Just under half of those who participated believe businesses should pay employees more instead of relying on customers to add a tip.
One in 3 people think tipping culture is ‘out of control’ with more stores, food trucks and even airline counters encouraging customers to tip, according to the results.
“It’s like pushing you towards what they want you to pay for instead of allowing you to give what you want to give or what they feel they deserve,” said Isaiah, one of the New Yorkers surveyed by our sister network NBC 4 New York.
More than 30% of respondents in the Bankrate study were annoyed by pre-programmed suggestion screens on kiosks and tablets after purchasing anything from a full meal to a cup of coffee.
Research shares that women tend to tip more frequently than men, while age plays a role in the trend. The baby boomersthose ages 59 to 77, are the highest tippers of all generations, followed by millennials and Gen Z who tip the least.
Although there is no official guide to tipping culture, terms like “tip inflation” and “blame tips” are becoming more prevalent as people try to navigate what is considered an appropriate amount to spend.
Social etiquette for tipping
Calculating the correct amount to tip can be confusing, which makes preset machines helpful, but here are examples of when and how much to tip. Please note that New York City sales tax is 8.875%.
RESTAURANT
Tip the waiters between 15 and 25% of the total bill. Some restaurants pool all tips at the end of the night.
HOTEL
Tips for maids and cleaning from $2 to $5 per day depending on the service requested. Porters and bellboys may receive $1 to $2 per bag brought to the room.
SPA, SALON, MASSEUSE
Tip 15-25% of the service performed with a tip of around $5 for the attendant who washes the hair.
FOOD COUNTER, DELI, WAREHOUSE
Tip 10% of the order, but if it’s a quick grab-and-go item, leaving a dollar is fine.
