US. They say tip 15%, but what do Americans really expect? EG those who wave down taxis outside the hotel?

Question

I found some service workers would look down their noses at 15% tips. Were they just trying it on?

Answer 1

Tips are a gratuity !!! If you are trying to live off of your tips, as an income, then I feel sorry for you. Tips originally meant to be a gratuity for good service. NOT A REQUIREMENT! So, if anyone expects a good tip for me, I had better get good service! The better the service, the greater the tip. And the government should quit taxing tips. No one is gonna FORCE me to give a tip!!!

Answer 2

15 to 18% is standard in restraunts as most people ony earn $3 to $4 per hour. The problem is, this is suposed to keep the cost down, but with any consience, then of course you tip and I give 20% if the service is good more than fair. So it does not work. So I do wish they would change the minimum wage as in Europe and then we could just tip for real over and above service.

Answer 3

Yes, I generally only tip cabbies 10%, food service 15-20% depending on service, valet parking $2-3 when I pick up the car, and bellhops, doormen, etc. a buck a bag. Maybe I'm just old. But, I don't see that my tips have to keep up with inflation or someone's elses expectations/greed. You'd be surprised at the amount of extra money cabbies make from tips for doing nothing but their job...half of them won't even help you with your luggage or open the door for you. Sometimes, I think only a 'thank you' is warranted.

Answer 4

With the cost of living the way it is, you gotta to tip based on the service you get. In restaurants, I usually tip between 15-20% but if I get bad service, I don't tip at all. Taxis are a whole different story. That tip is dependant on the driver attitude and his efficiency on getting me to my destination on time and in one piece. My advice is if you are by yourself, tip based on the service you get. If you are in a group of more than three, have each person chip in a decent amount for a tip depending on the cost.

Answer 5

I would tell guys waving down taxis that I could wave down a taxi myself. I'm generous for nice, good service like restauurants, cabs, but not for service I don't need, like those restroom attendants in some places.

Answer 6

If you go to a sit down restaurant then you should tip 15-20%. most waiters/waitresses make $2-3 per hour. That means if you don't tip they don't make enough money to cover their expenses. doormen and the like you only tip a few dollars.

Answer 7

Tips are voluntary but in my experience of travelling in the U.S., less than 20% and they don't even thank you.

Now I tip for good service only. Don't feel pressured and don't feel you have to tip. Thats what they rely on. Remember, you never have to see them again, just smile and walk away;. Have a good time.x