
A recent TikTok video has sparked a heated debate about tipping culture in the United States, with a popular US TikToker urging tourists to tip 20% when dining out. This video, created by TikToker @CarloAndBailey, has drawn criticism from both Americans and international viewers, particularly those from countries where tipping is not customary.
In the United States, tipping is a crucial component of income for many hospitality workers. Unlike in many other countries, where service charges may be included in the bill, American waitstaff rely heavily on tips to make a living. The federal minimum wage for tipped employees is a mere $2.13 per hour, significantly lower than the standard minimum wage. This discrepancy means that tips are essential for these workers to make ends meet.