Do You Know How Much to Tip Your Server?

There are thousands of restaurants in the United States. Just about everybody has gone out to eat at some point. Even though we have all gone out to eat, it is surprising to see how many people are unaware of proper restaurant etiquette. The biggest mistakes people make is related to the server and how much to tip. Anyone that has worked as a server knows how seriously mislead the customers tend to be.

The first thing people do not realize is how much a server gets paid. This will vary from state to state, but it is consistently less than minimum wage. Before the minimum wage raise of 2007, Ohio servers were paid $2.13 an hour. They currently make just over $3. These rates are low because it is expected that they will earn tips. So, if you have "stiffed" a server, it means you have contributed to them making less than minimum wage.

Also, there are other important facts to know about tipping. Your server is not the only one getting a portion of the tips. The host and/or busser, and the bartender also get a percentage of the tips that is determined by the check, not by the actual amount that you tip. In other words, when you do not tip a server, they will end up having to pay to serve you.

Most people do not know the appropriate amount to tip. For years, it was said that 15% was the standard and 20% was good for great service. This is no longer the case. A 15% tip is considered very mediocre. Nowadays a tip should be at least 18%, but preferred is 20% by servers. Remember that with inflation and skyrocketing gas prices it is necessary for servers to make more money.