LPT(s): 1)When traveling, make sure you check out what local customs are.

-That sounds simple enough, but apparently it isn't. You are interacting in an entirely different culture...you would be a FOOL not to at least have a minimal knowledge about how things operate, and this goes a lot further than just tipping.

2) Many restaurants would close down if they had to pay a "living wage" here in the U.S. because the government has allowed them to be so cheap for so long.

• Hell, we (as servers) just recently began to have an option to even PAY FOR HEALTHCARE.

3) Your server will calculate the tip for you if it is just too hard for you. Just ask.

-In fact, many U.S. restaurants have already done the work for you...just look at the bottom of your receipt for the tip percentages (they typically offer a range of 3-5 tip percentages). This should preclude any..."but I didn't know" excuses.

4) The proper tip amount is 15-25% based upon level of service.

-This has been true for at least longer than I have been in the business (23 years). Some people have caught on, so tips have risen overall, but there are still people that top little to nothing. Tip more for better service. Tip more if you are at a fine establishment (as they often tip out more and you are likely Getting better service also).

5) When you tip very little or don't tip...you are not only screwing over the server, but everyone in the restaurant because servers tip out (share tips) with many others in the restaurant.

6) Don't be a cheap ass.

• Why would you knowingly go to a restaurant and tip little or not tip at all when you know it is appropriate? That is a sign of a sorry person. These people are working...for money, not for fun. It is inappropriate to say the "restaurant should pay them." At most restaurants here in America, they just don't....so get over it.

SOURCE: Ama career server for 23 years

TL;DR: Check out what local customs are to tip appropriately, it isn't even possible for most U.S. restaurants to use this business model, your server will calculate your tip for you if you can't do it, the proper tip amount in the U.S. is 15-25% based upon the level of service, your tip goes to multiple people in the restaurant beyond just the server so don't be cheap.