Digital tips subtract from waiters’ earnings in the U.S.

New York. – Although digital payments dominate transactions in restaurants and bars, leaving cash tips is still the best way to directly benefit those who serve you, according to industry workers. Colton Trowbridge, who has worked as a waiter in both Kansas and New York, states that receiving cash tips is more rewarding and helpful, as the money immediately reaches his hands. This represents significant relief when relying on those daily earnings to cover basic expenses, especially in jobs with low hourly wages.

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In contrast, tips left with a card usually take longer to process, even arriving weeks later with the payroll. In addition, they are subject to possible errors when writing amounts on receipts or even being omitted if the customer accidentally takes the signed receipt. Another relevant aspect is that in many U.S. states, establishments are allowed to deduct credit card processing fees from tips. This means that, for example, from a $10 tip, the employee may only receive $9.70 if the commission is 3%. Only Maine, Massachusetts, and California prohibit this practice. Faced with this scenario, experts and workers recommend that diners plan ahead and carry cash when going to restaurants or bars, to ensure that their gratitude reaches completely and directly to those who deserve it.