13 Times You Should Never Leave a Tip

Tipping culture can be odd, especially given that societal norms and expectations change from place to place. Tipping is almost always considered a way to say thank you whenever a service is good, but there can be cases when it isn’t necessary or appropriate.

Tipping is a way to show appreciation to someone for good service, but many people aren’t aware of when it is relevant. According to a YouGov survey, 77 percent of Americans leave a tip at restaurants, but only 27 percent do so at coffee shops. One benefit of this is that it points out that tipping habits are somewhat different from service to service.

Knowing the context in which tipping is expected can help you avoid trying to do too much and ensure that your gesture is appreciated and seen as appropriate. For instance, tipping a server at a restaurant versus tipping at a retail store or doctor’s office—that’s neither customary nor necessary. Here are 13 situations when leaving a tip might not make much sense.

At Open Bar Events

One of the more popular events to choose from for weddings and corporate get-togethers is open bar events, where guests can drink to their heart’s content without the fear of paying a bill at the end of the night. Here, the venue hosts at these events pay the bartenders a set wage and typically provide a gratuity. 

Leaving a small tip may quicken the service process, but most bartenders won’t expect it. Instead, let the staff know they are being acknowledged for their service while enjoying the event.

When Thanking a Teacher

It’s widely known that teachers significantly impact young people’s minds, and many parents want to express their gratitude. Tipping in cash, however, is generally inappropriate and makes teachers uncomfortable. 

Consider a small gift card or a personalized note instead of cash, which may make you feel awkward.

When Gratuity is Already Included

Many restaurants, especially those that cater to large parties, automatically include a gratuity on the bill. This is often done to ensure that servers are adequately compensated for serving a larger group, which can be more demanding than individual tables. 

If you notice a service charge on your bill, you are not obligated to tip further unless you feel the service was exceptional.

At Retail Stores

Most retail industry employees are paid by the hour and do not use tips to supplement their income. According to CNBC, giving a tip to retail employees can be awkward because too many store policies do not allow it. 

However, if you receive excellent service, leave positive feedback on a customer survey instead.

On Flights

First, flight attendants ensure passenger safety and comfort during flights. Airline employees typically don’t have to be tipped. Their role involves many tasks, such as serving food and beverages. 

However, Travel + Leisure mentions that airlines generally have policies against tipping. Flight attendants are well-paid and trained to refuse tips politely. 

At Fast Food Restaurants

Foods for fast food restaurants are meant to be provided quickly. Consequently, tipping is not done in these places. If you want to show appreciation for a good service, leave good feedback in a customer survey. 

For Legal Services

Hiring lawyers and legal professionals costs a fortune, and they don’t take tips. Tipping might be considered unprofessional and ethical. 

So, if you want to say thanks, opt for thoughtfulness, like a thank you note or a referral to friends and family. The American Bar Association doesn’t advocate tipping attorneys and points out that professional fees cover all services.

For Professional Home Repairs

Contractors, such as electricians and plumbers, charge for their work. Since these professionals don’t expect tips, they accept their rates as the value of their services. For emergency repairs, contractors might charge a higher rate than they expect a tip. 

For Package Deliveries

Delivery drivers for companies like UPS and Amazon are compensated with a livable wage and do not rely on tips. These drivers often work under tight schedules, leaving little time for personal interactions. 

If you wish to show appreciation, consider leaving a cooler with cold drinks or snacks for them, especially during hot weather. 

At “No-Tipping” Restaurants

Some establishments have suggested that people pay a higher wage for wait staff than tipping them. 

Tipping can disrupt the restaurant’s operational model and confuse its staff in these settings. If you’re dining in a no-tipping restaurant, respect their policy and stop leaving a tip.

At Doctors’ Offices

Tipping medical professionals is unethical. Give a small gift basket or send a thank-you card to show appreciation. 

According to the American Medical Association (AMA), tipping the nation’s healthcare providers can lead to a conflict of interest, as the perceived monetary reward may influence a doctor’s medical decisions. Patients should refrain from tipping their doctors and instead focus on quality healthcare.

At Self-Checkout Machines

Grocery stores and retail outlets are increasingly using self-checkout machines. These machines allow customers to scan and bag their items; potentially, no cashiers are needed. 

You don’t need to leave a tip when self-checkout because staff interaction is minimal and not involved during the process. Consumer Reports found in a study that 75 percent of consumers prefer self-checkout because it’s efficient and you don’t tip while it’s happening.

When Service is Legitimately Bad

The idea behind tipping someone is to reward exemplary service. But sometimes the service is not so excellent. A Restaurant Business Magazine poll found that 43 percent of diners refused to tip for poor service.

Tipping is often a complicated practice that is culturally determined and adapted to different social circumstances. Tipping is an excellent way of expressing appreciation, but not always. Understanding tipping enables you to make informed decisions about social etiquette and personal values. 

Disclaimer – This list is solely the author’s opinion based on research and publicly available information.

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