Is Tipping Out of Control?

2 Min Read By MRM Staff

More than 80 percent of Americans believe tipping culture has spiraled out of control with more than 40 percent supporting a ban on the practice, according to WalletHub’s 2026 Tipping Survey. Tipping has gotten out of control largely because it has expanded far beyond its traditional role of rewarding good service in hospitality settings with technology reinforcing this perception, WalletHub writer & analyst Chip Lupo told Modern Restaurant Management (MRM) magazine. 

“Around one in five people report tipping less when faced with a suggested tip screen, showing that automated prompts can sometimes backfire and contribute to frustration about mandatory-feeling gratuities. Customers tend to tip those who provide direct service and personal attention.”

Among the survey highlights: 

57 percent say servers deserve higher tips than cooks, reflecting a strong preference for rewarding front-of-house staff

Most guests also believe that tips should go only to employees who…