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Not knowing the proper tip or gratuity amount for a service can be very unsettling and nerve racking. 

Most of the time this because even more stressful when you are in a situation you are not accustomed to or in other words something that you don’t do every day.  Eating out and tipping a waitress is one thing but what is right when you take a limo ride for a wedding or special event and the gratuity is not included?  Another common question is do you tip off of the amount before or after tax?  It is not necessary to tip off the total bill with tax however most people in general do tip that way just for simplicity reasons and to be a little more generous.  Tipping in general is discretionary and really is a matter of opinion.  Some people really take their experience into play rather than to use a general guide which is totally reasonable and very common.

Below is a guide for the most tipping experiences we all run across and some that are the most questioned.  Again this is just a guide and tipping is not an obligation, however in most of the cases below some type of tip is expected.

Ground transportation

• Taxi, limo, or van driver - 15% of the total fare. Up to 20% if the driver helps with the bags or makes extra stops. Sometimes the rate quoted for limos often includes gratuity so just confirm with the driver.
• Driver of courtesy shuttle - $1-$2 per bag if he helps with the bags.
• Auto dealership shuttle driver - Nothing.

At the airport

• Skycap - $2 per bag or more if the bags are heavy. $2 extra for curbside check-in is optional. If you arrive late and he helps you get to your flight on time, tip an extra $5-20.
• Electric cart driver - $2-$3 a person.
• Flight attendant or other in-flight personnel - Nothing .

Barbers, salons, spas

• Barber - $2-3
• Hair Stylist or Color Specialist - 10-20%. $3-5 extra for last-minute service.
• Hair extensions - 10-20%, regardless of the overall cost of the service.
• Manicure or Facial- 15%
• Massage therapist - No tip if at doctor's office. If at a spa or other location, 10-15%.  
• Electrologist, laser hair removal - Nothing.
• Salon or spa package – Confirm before the appointment if a service charge is included. If not, then 15-20% split among the providers.  

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