How much should you tip? A guide for restaurants, delivery and more
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Greg Giesen, USA TODAY NETWORKWed, April 29, 2026 at 11:02 AM UTC
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It seems everything is getting more expensive these days.
From gas to groceries, it feels like wallets are taking a beating. Then, on the occasions when people decide to treat themselves and go out to dinner or buy a cup of coffee, they are asked – or told – to leave a tip.
It can be confusing. Do you have to tip a barista? If a restaurant automatically adds an 18% gratuity to the bill, do you have to pay it? What is the proper amount to tip?
Here is a quick guide to tipping to help the next time you go out.
What is the appropriate tip when you go out to dinner?
While it depends on the server, there is a typical baseline for tips at a sit-down restaurant.
Tips are voluntary, and customers should not feel pressured to give a specific amount.
According to Bankrate.com, the baseline tip is 18% of the pretax bill. If the server does a good job, the tip can increase to 20% to 25%.
According to UCLA's Dashew Center for International Students & Scholars, tips can range from 10% for poor service to 20% for great service. The baseline for satisfactory service is 15%.
What is an automatic gratuity?
When you go out to eat with a large group, some restaurants add an automatic gratuity to the bill. According to WebstaurantStore, automatic gratuities are typically for parties of six or more. Businesses must clearly disclose the automatic gratuity before an order is placed.
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Do I have to pay an automatic gratuity?
Yes. An automatic gratuity is not a tip; it is a service charge, according to the IRS. Tips are freely given by customers, but service charges are mandatory fees.
In case you missed it: Has tipping has gotten out of hand? Here's why most people think so.
How much should I tip a bartender or barista?
For bartenders, it depends on the order. A beer or glass of wine typically warrants $1 per drink. For cocktails – especially specialty drinks that take more time – a tip of 18% to 20% is suggested.
For baristas, tipping around 10% to 15% for a coffee, or $1 for a cup of drip coffee, is common.
Do I need to tip at fast food restaurants?
At takeout restaurants or places where you order at a counter, tipping is not expected. There may be a tip jar, and customers can leave something, but it is not required.
Do I have to select one of the tip amounts when paying with a credit card?
No. Tips are voluntary, and customers should not feel pressured to give a specific amount. You can choose a custom amount, no amount, or one of the suggested options. Cash tips are also acceptable.
Who should I tip and how much?
Here's a quick guide from bankrate.com:
Restaurant delivery: $5 or 20% of the meal price
Grocery delivery: 15% to 20% of the total order
Alcohol delivery: 15% to 20% of the total order
Flower delivery: $2 to $5
Hotel porter: $2 to $3 per bag at a standard hotel; $10 per bag at a luxury hotel
Room service: 20% of the meal price
Housekeeping: $3 to $5 per day at a standard hotel; $10 per day at a luxury hotel
Manicurists: 5% to 20% per nail technician
Hairstylist or barber: 5% to 20%
Massage therapist: 15% to 20%
Limousine driver: 10% to 20% of the fare
Taxi driver: 15% to 20% of the fare
Ride-share service: 3% to 5% of the fare
Shuttle driver: $2 to $3
Babysitter: 15% to 20% of the total
Movers: $10 per person for two hours, $20 per person for four hours, and $40 per person for eight hours
This article originally appeared on Delaware News Journal: Who should I tip and how much? A guide to gratuity
Source: “AOL Money”
