What are the rules for tipping in America? A US traveller’s survival guide.

[Redfish]

I was unaware of this as well and quite surprised to find out that a different minimum wage existed for tipped employees, but it is a fact. Fed minimum for tipped employees is $2.13 hr. but that minimum varies by state.

Minimum Wage for Tipped Employees by State 2025 | Paycor

In 2025 the tipped minimum wage rate is $2.13/hr. In some states, employers can claim a tip credit for these workers.

www.paycor.com

so it's not a federal statute as the other poster claimed, thanks.

 

[Concerned American]

so it's not a federal statute as the other poster claimed, thanks.

The federal statute's minimum is $2.13/hr for tipped employees. States are free in raise that minimum, but they are not at liberty to reduce it. The same holds true for the federal minimum wage of $7.25 for employees that do not receive the recognized percentage of tips.

 

[ShahdagMountains]

Rules for tipping. If you get good service, then you tip. If you don't, then you dont.

If you don’t, they pull a face.

 

[rightwinger]

Tipping is out of control
After decades of a traditional 15 percent tip, servers are offended if they don’t get 20

The price of a restaurant meal has almost doubled. That increase in tip should be enough

 

[Unkotare]

Servers should be paid a reasonable wage based on their value to the restaurant and leave it at that. This little begging the patron for more is insulting to everyone involved. "Oh please master, might I have a bit more? I'll fill your water."