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How TipGuide researches tipping customs
TipGuide separates legal or bill-based facts (such as an included service charge) from social customs, which can vary by venue, region and service level.
How ranges are presented
- Expected: commonly treated as part of compensation.
- Appreciated: optional but customary for good service.
- Not customary: generally unnecessary unless service is exceptional.
- Service included: check the bill before adding anything.
Important limits
Country pages are travel guidance, not employment or tax advice. Card terminals may suggest percentages that are not local custom. Venue policies and automatic gratuities take priority over general guidance.
Update policy
Pages are reviewed when service-charge rules or strong local customs change. A year in the title means the page has been reviewed, not that etiquette resets every January.
Last reviewed 2026-08-10.