Tipping is deeply embedded in US culture and effectively subsidizes service workers' wages. Not tipping is considered rude.
🇺🇸 Americas · Compare all 16 countries
Universal tipping rules
Always carry small bills or local coins
Tipping is often impractical without small denominations. Get change when you can — $20 bills and €50 notes are useless for tips.
Check if service is already included
Many European and Asian restaurants add a 'service charge' or 'gratuité'. Adding another 15% on top is throwing money away.
Never tip with foreign currency
Tipping in USD in Japan or UK changes is pointless — they can't easily exchange it and may find it confusing. Always use local currency.
Use cash for tips wherever possible
Card tips often don't reach staff directly — especially in the US and France. Cash tips handed to the person go directly to them.