Tipping is a common way to thank someone for good service, especially in restaurants and other service jobs. USA Today has reported that the average tip in the U.S. is around 18%, though the amount can vary depending on the situation.
That doesn’t mean every interaction calls for a tip. There are times when a tip may already be included, isn’t expected, or doesn’t make sense based on the service you received.
Here are 13 situations where you may want to skip the tip or reconsider adding one.
Poor or Negligent Service
If your server barely checks on you, ignores problems with your order, or leaves you waiting without explanation, it’s reasonable to question the tip. Before deciding, consider speaking with a manager so the problem can be addressed instead of letting it happen to the next customer.
Related: 12 Things I Never Tip For—and Why You Might Stop Too
Excessive Charges
Some restaurants and venues add hefty service fees before you even reach the tip line. If a large service charge is already included, check what it covers before adding another gratuity.
Unprofessional Behavior
Rude comments, dismissive treatment, or a complete lack of attention can make an otherwise pleasant experience frustrating. If the behavior crosses a line, speak with a manager and explain what happened before deciding whether to leave a tip.
Non-Service Situations
A tip isn’t expected for every food purchase, especially at self-service restaurants, counter-service spots, or basic takeout orders. Etiquette expert Melissa Leonard told USA Today that customers aren’t obligated to tip for takeout, though a tip can still be appreciated for large or complicated orders.
Related: 17 Restaurant Dishes That Look Better Than They Taste, According to Chefs
Pre-Included Gratuity
Some restaurants automatically add a gratuity or service charge, especially for large parties and special events. The National Restaurant Association reported in 2023 that 15% of restaurants were charging a service fee, so check your bill before adding another tip.
Staff Impoliteness
Being treated rudely by an employee can change how you feel about leaving a tip. If the behavior was especially bad, let a manager know what happened so they have a chance to address it.
No Apology for Long Wait Times
A long wait can happen for plenty of reasons, but customers should usually be kept informed if an order is seriously delayed. If you’re left waiting with no explanation or update, it’s fair to reconsider the tip based on the service you actually received.
Related: 17 Restaurant Dishes Chefs Warn Aren’t Worth Your Money
Unprofessional Conduct
Inappropriate comments, unwanted behavior, or other serious boundary violations go far beyond ordinary bad service. Report the incident to management or the appropriate authority, and don’t feel obligated to reward someone for conduct that made you uncomfortable.
Overcharging
Check your bill for incorrect charges before reaching for your wallet. If you’re charged for something you never received, ask management to correct the bill and decide on the tip after the issue has been resolved.
Hygiene or Safety Concerns
Poor cleanliness or unsafe conditions can turn a routine visit into a serious concern. If you notice a problem, bring it to management’s attention and don’t feel pressured to tip for service that raised health or safety concerns.
Related: 15 Closed Restaurant Chains We Miss and Wish Would Reopen
Sufficiently Paid Staff
Tipping customs can be very different outside the United States, and some countries don’t have a strong tipping culture. In places such as Australia and Japan, workers are generally paid without relying on tips, so checking local customs before leaving extra money can save you some confusion.
Ethical Concerns
You may decide not to support a business if you have serious concerns about how it treats workers or handles other ethical issues. Before making that choice, make sure you have reliable information rather than relying on rumors or assumptions about the company.
Regulars Experiencing Unprofessional Service
Being a regular customer doesn’t mean you have to leave the same tip every time, especially after receiving unusually poor service. If a usually reliable experience goes badly, you can adjust the tip based on what happened that day.
