The ultimate guide to tipping: When you should do it and how much you should give

Tipping for services rendered is a part of our American culture. However, sometimes we might not feel like tipping the Dale Earnhardt Jr. wannabe taxi driver, the surly and lethargic waitress, or the stingy bartender. But, unless we want to make a scene or risk getting something unsavory in our food, it’s important to know when to tip, who to tip and how much to give them.

Below is a general tipping guide to abide by.

When dining

– Wait service (sit down): 15-20%

– Wait service (buffet): 10%

– Host or Maître d’: No obligation

– Take out: No obligation

– Home delivery: 10-15% of the bill, $2-$5 for pizza delivery

– Bartender: $1-$2 per drink or 15-20% of the tab

– Tipping jars: No obligation

– Restroom Attendant: $0.50-$3

– Valet: $2-$5

When traveling

– Skycap: $2 first bag, $1 per additional bag

– Doorman: $1-$4 for carrying luggage; $1-$2 for hailing cab

– Bellhop: $2 first bag; $1 additional bag; $2-3 for additional service

– Housekeeper: $2-$5 per day, left daily with note marked “Housekeeping”

– Concierge: $5-10 for tickets or restaurant reservations

– Taxi driver: 15-20% of the fare, plus $1-$2 per bag carried

When visiting a salon/spa

– Hair Salon: 15-20% (ask to be split among those who served you)

– Manicurist: 15-20%

– Facial, waxing, massage: 15-20%

If you receive bad service, you do not have to tip. This may be awkward, but giving a tip is to reward the person for their beneficial service to you. So, if your hairdresser turns your hair orange, or the delivery person gets your order wrong, or your facial makes your face burn, then by all means don’t give them a tip!

(You can click HERE to view Real Simple’s detailed guide for all of the service people in your life.)

Photo: Aimee Symington

This story was originally published January 4, 2017 at 10:00 PM with the headline "The ultimate guide to tipping: When you should do it and how much you should give."