Is tipping culture out of hand?
Aug 30, 2024, 6:00 PM
Many debate about tipping culture, while many rely on it. (Canva)
(Canva)
SALT LAKE CITY — Tipping culture has become huge in the U.S. Some might argue it’s out of hand.
There’s even trending videos poking fun of it, pulling out the tip screen after services you wouldn’t expect. The videos range from helping someone push an elevator button, to proposing, to the birth of a child, all comically met with a ‘It’s just going to ask you a quick question,’ directly after.
These situations maybe considered funny because how over the top they are. But also just as likely, its because how relatable they are.
According to a Forbes 2023 survey, one in three people feel pressured to tip. While 18% of Americans feel uncomfortable about tipping.
And part of that uncomfortableness comes from not knowing when or how much to tip.
While the exact origins of tipping are hard to pinpoint, it’s clear that the tip screen on credit card machines has become ubiquitous.
Local bartender Theo Voris, who lives on tips, said he’s baffled at the tip screen at certain places.
“There’s some days where I even wonder, who am I supposed to tip and who am I not supposed to tip?”
And it’s true many don’t realize when tipping is optional, or even against the rules.
The need for tipping in the first place
Tipping culture is a debate for many and a livelihood for others, but bother sides agree the tip screen could be avoided with honest wages.
“Someone said ‘hey I’m not gonna pay you a living wage.’ Whoever did that was a genius or an evil villain,” said Voris.
In contrast, other parts of the world have different approaches, with employers providing fair wages and banning tips altogether. Even California enacted legislation addressing the issue.
KSL NewsRadio’s Eric Cabrera asked listeners via Instagram to weigh in on the tipping debate.
Jared Smith said being overseas was a total culture change for him.
“Living in Malaysia, Saudi Arabia and the UAE none of these places have tipping. You go in, have your meal, you pay for your order and then you leave. ”
However, Voris noted his position makes $2.15 an hour. So tips are vital to pay the rent.
Related: Americans facing a radically different tipping culture
