Tipping, or “tips” in English, is a common practice in the United States, and especially in New York. But how much should you leave?
The origin of the tip
Tipping in New York is practically required in restaurants, bars, taxis, hair salons, spas, hotels, and other tourist services. In most cases, the amount is left to the discretion of the customer, but it is generally between 15% and 20% of the total cost of the service. It is not uncommon to go up to 25%.
Tipping amounts in New York have changed over time, depending on various factors such as inflation. In the 1920s, the amount of tips in restaurants was about 10% of the total bill. This rate gradually increased over the following decades to reach 15% in the 1970s and 20% in the 1990s.
In some cases, tips may even be considered part of the wages of service workers, who are often paid below minimum wage because of the tips they receive.
Finally, the amount of tips changes depending on the situation. For example, taxi drivers can expect to be tipped 15% to 20% of the cost of the ride, while hotel concierges can be tipped $5 to $10 for services rendered.
Is it possible not to tip?
It never happens. Even if the service is bad, you always have to leave something.
When you pick up your product yourself at the counter, the new cashing machines now systematically offer you to add a tip. Many people leave a nominal amount, usually $1, rather than a percentage.
Some restaurants will also ask you for a double tip because several people took care of you. Again, it is impossible to refuse to pay, but you are not obliged to apply a percentage.
What is the gratuity ?
The word sometimes appears on the invoice and could be confused with “free”. But it is exactly the opposite. The term “gratuity” comes from the Latin “gratuitas” and was introduced into English in the 16th century to refer to gifts or donations made as a sign of appreciation or gratitude. Over time, the term evolved to refer more specifically to tips or percentages added to a bill for services rendered.
Tipping is part of taxes, like our VAT. You must therefore add 20% to the prices of all the dishes you will see on a menu before ordering…
