Tipping is not mandatory by law in the United States. However, it is a common practice and an important aspect of the service industry in the country. In the U.S., tips are a significant part of the income for many service workers, such as restaurant servers, bartenders, hotel staff, taxi drivers, and other service providers.
The general expectation is that customers will leave a tip as a way to show appreciation for good service. Tipping is typically a percentage of the total bill and can vary depending on the type of service received. The standard tipping rate for restaurant servers is around 15% to 20% of the bill's total, but some people may choose to tip more for exceptional service or in upscale establishments.
It's worth noting that some restaurants and service establishments may include a mandatory gratuity charge for larger groups, usually around 18% to 20%, to ensure that their servers are appropriately compensated.
While tipping is not required by law, it is culturally expected in the United States, and many service workers rely on tips to make a living wage. Not tipping or leaving an inadequate tip, especially for good service, is generally considered impolite and can be seen as a reflection of dissatisfaction with the service.
If you receive exceptionally poor service, it is still essential to consider the circumstances before deciding not to tip. In such cases, you may want to address the issue with the service provider or their supervisor instead of withholding the tip, as tips are often shared among multiple employees in some establishments.
Ultimately, while tipping is not legally mandatory, it is a social norm and expected practice in the United States. It is essential to be aware of local customs and expectations when traveling or living in a new country.