Texas Tipping Talk: Are We Being Guilted into Tipping Too Much?

Back in high school and college, I took a couple of etiquette classes, and yes, they actually offered those back then. One of the first lessons drilled into us was tipping 15% as the polite standard. Not 10%, not a few coins tossed on the table, 15%. And for anyone who’s not quick at math, I always offered this advice: double the sales tax. Since tax in Texas is 8.25%, doubling it gets you close to the standard tip.

Always Remember to Go Above and Beyond

I’ve always believed in tipping generously, especially when someone truly serves you. That includes restaurant servers, barbers, stylists, delivery drivers, and anyone who has real, hands-on interaction. In fact, if a restaurant comped my meal or someone else paid my ticket, I make it a point to find out what the total would’ve been, and leave that full amount as a tip. That’s something I’ve taught all my kids.

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And before we go further, no, I don’t believe the guy standing at the door at a big-box store checking receipts deserves a tip. That’s not service. That’s suspicion.

Read More: Texas Star Deion Sanders Once Lived in a 29,000 Sq Ft Palace

Protocol School of Texas Asks: What Is Tipflation?

Reader’s Digest recently published an article highlighting the rise of “tipflation.” In short, digital payment systems now prompt us to tip for just about everything, from grabbing a premade sandwich to using a self-service kiosk. According to etiquette expert Diane Gottsman from The Protocol School of Texas, the tipping prompt on a screen is the modern-day tip jar. But for some customers, it feels more like digital guilt.

When the Machine Asks for a Tip in Texas

The article points out that many of us now get screens asking if we want to leave $1, $2, or even 25%, sometimes when no human was even involved. Gottsman emphasizes that tipping should be based on the level of service, the effort involved, and your own budget. So, no, if you just bought a $4 cup of coffee, you don’t have to feel obligated to leave another $4 as a tip.

Texans Still Tip for Real Service

A Discover survey found that the average tip for great service in Texas and the U.S. is now around 20%. I say that’s fair. If someone goes above and beyond, they deserve to be recognized by tipping more. But tipping out of pressure from a screen, or when there’s no actual service involved, nearly all Texans agree 'It's gone too far'.

Don’t Let the Screen Guilt You

Gottsman advises that if you feel uncomfortable hitting the “no tip” button, carry a little cash and drop it in the jar. A dollar or two goes a long way when it comes from the heart, not from obligation.

Let’s Teach "Texas Generosity" With Purpose

I believe tipping is more than etiquette, it’s about gratitude and decency. But let’s also teach common sense. Don’t tip a machine. Tip the hardworking human who served you with a smile. And if someone else picks up the bill, consider it your chance to be extra generous, Texas style.

As more Texans feel the pressure of rising prices, let’s keep tipping where it counts, and skip the nonsense that turns gratitude into guilt. Let's not forget, Texas has a reputation to live up to, we're friendly and generous.

Sources: Reader’s Digest, The Protocol School of Texas, Discover Tips in America, U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics