The Baccarat Player’s Guide to Tipping in American Casinos
Understanding tipping in American casinos can be a bit of a maze, especially if you are visiting from abroad or it is your first time in a casino. About 80% of the staff you encounter, from valets to dealers, rely on tips to supplement their low wages. If you are planning a trip to play baccarat in an American casino, then here is a guide to help you through the tipping minefield.
Arrival and Check-In Tips
When you first arrive at the casino, valet runners can save you time and effort. Tipping $2 to $5 when you arrive and a few more dollars when they bring your car back is standard. If you’re staying at the hotel, a bellhop can also be a great help. Tipping a few dollars per bag or $10 to $20 for a luggage cart will help you have a hassle-free start to your stay and let you head to the baccarat tables faster.
Tipping at Table Games
Once you’ve checked in, made it to the casino floor, and found the right baccarat table for your style and budget, tipping the dealers can be confusing. Dealers are there to both entertain and run the games, and your tips reflect the enjoyment and service you receive. Whether you win or lose, if you’ve had a good time, consider tipping your dealer.
At baccarat tables, tips are usually given when coloring up. This is when you exchange your low-denomination chips for higher-denomination ones. Some players will place a chip in front of their bet for the dealer. If you win a side bet with a decent payout, tipping 3-5% is common. Incidentally, when playing live online baccarat, some platforms allow you to tip the dealer, and this would normally be done after a big win or at the end of the session.
For blackjack, you can tip directly or place a bet for the dealer. Lower-limit tables might see a few dollars after winning streaks, while higher-limit games might involve $5 chips. When playing roulette, you can place a bet for the dealer on top of your chips or hand it in directly. Tipping around 5% when you’re done is typical. At the craps tables, players often tip by handing in chips when they’re done, though some prefer making small bets for dealers as good luck. If you’re new, find a slower game and ask about tipping. You can be sure that the dealers will be happy to guide you.
Slot Machines and Attendants Tips
Tipping at slot machines is relatively straightforward. If an attendant fixes your machine, a dollar or two can ensure prompt future service. If you are lucky enough to win a payout of over $1,200, which is handled by a slot floor person, tipping typically starts at $20 and can range from 3-10% of the jackpot.
If an attendant holds a machine for you, tip based on the duration of your absence, from a couple of dollars to $5 or more for longer periods. For absences over 5-10 minutes, ask them to turn off the machine instead.
Wins of more than $1,200 are hand pays that require IRS reporting. Attendants handle the paperwork and payout. A minimum tip of $20 is recommended, up to 3-10% of the jackpot. Federal taxes aren’t withheld until winnings exceed $5,000, so request withholding on smaller amounts if needed.
Additional Casino Staff Tips
Beyond dealers and attendants, there are several other members of casino staff who require tipping. Most US casino dealers earn between $4.35 to $9.00 per hour and rely on pooled tips to supplement their income, ensuring fairness across different games.
Drink servers earn as little as $2.15 per hour, so it is recommended to tip $1 to $2 per drink, more for excellent service, to keep them coming back. Tipping at the casino cage is rare, but consider it for big wins or time-consuming transactions.
Casino hosts may not always accept cash tips, but small gifts or gift cards are often appreciated. You should tip based upon the level of service provided, whether it’s for booking rooms or securing event tickets.
When dining at a casino or nearby restaurants, tipping 10-25% of your meal’s cost, including drinks, is customary. Most staff rely on tips to make up for low base wages. For taxis and rideshares like Uber and Lyft, tip about 10% of the fare.
Tipping Culture in American vs. Global Casinos
Tipping in American casinos is extensive compared to places, such as the UK or Macau, where tipping is rare. In fact, until recently, tipping in UK casinos was illegal. It is only in the Caribbean that you will find an American tipping model.
Therefore, be sure to take tipping into account when planning your trip, as it does add a considerable expense. Just remember, your tips support hardworking staff who are there to help you have the best time possible. While tipping can add up, it ensures you receive attentive service and helps make your casino experience memorable and enjoyable.
