7 Things You Never Need To Tip On

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From car dealerships to self-service restaurants, it seems like every company wants you to tip. But is tipping always necessary? The short answer: No.

Even if a checkout kiosk prompts you for a tip, it doesn’t mean you have to leave one — or that you should. These purchases never require a tip, so you don’t have to feel bad for not providing one.

Automated Gratuities

Some restaurants include an automatic tip of 18% to 20% on their bills. You may see this type of tip when you’re eating with a large group or at a fine dining establishment. In these situations, there’s no need to provide a separate gratuity, since it’s already tacked on to your tab.

However, be careful to distinguish service charges from automated gratuities. A service charge goes directly to the restaurant’s owner, who may or may not distribute it to their waitstaff. It’s customary to leave a tip in this situation. 

Fast Food

Fast-food employees generally receive the minimum wage (or more). They don’t follow the tipped-worker pay structure that waitstaff and bartenders do. Most won’t provide any extra services such as tableside orders and drink refills.

Instead, you’ll stand in line or go to a drive-through to pick up your food. Feel free not to leave a tip here unless someone goes well beyond their job responsibilities to take care of your needs.

Mail Delivery

Many people get to know their mail carrier over the months and years. So it may seem natural to leave them a tip around the holidays. However, government mail carriers can’t accept cash gifts or cash equivalents, such as Visa gift cards. It’s actually against the law.

If you want to show your appreciation to the mail carrier, write them a thank-you note instead. You can include a noncash gift worth less than $20, such as packaged snacks or gloves.

Home Contract Work

Plumbers, electricians, painters and roofers don’t expect a tip. They receive good money for their efforts, and many work for themselves so they can set their own hourly and per-job rates. Instead of a gratuity, make them feel comfortable in your home. Offer them a glass of water while they’re working. Leaving a positive review on a third-party site such as Google or Yelp is also highly appreciated.

Healthcare Services

Tipping a doctor or nurse may cross ethical rules they must abide by. It’s understandable to be grateful for their help, but be wary of cash gifts. A handwritten thank-you note is a better alternative. If it’s someone you see regularly (like a home healthcare aide), a noncash gift may be appropriate.

Educational Providers

It’s customary to provide teachers with seasonal and end-of-year gifts but not tips. Some public school districts actively prohibit gratuities for their teaching staff or limit what they can receive. 

If you’d like to thank your kid’s teacher for their hard work, consider partnering up with other parents on a noncash gift. Including a heartfelt thank-you message also goes a long way. 

Legal Services

Like doctors, lawyers follow ethical guidelines that may limit their ability to accept tips. Plus, most lawyers earn a decent living through hourly billing or case representation. Paying them a gratuity on top of their fees isn’t necessary.

If you’re particularly pleased with your lawyer’s services, consider leaving a glowing review on the site of their choice. Your positive feedback may help them attract new clients looking for a skilled attorney. 

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