Tipping Hacks: How to Show Appreciation Without Breaking the Bank

These days, you may feel as if you're constantly being prompted to leave a tip. Many retail stores, cafes, and coffee shops use payment processing systems that display a tipping prompt after you swipe your credit card. You may feel extra pressure to leave a tip in these scenarios, even when minimal service is provided. But it's essential to keep your personal finances in mind so you don't overspend. Here are some ways to show appreciation without going broke.

Send an email to express gratitude for a positive interaction

If you're visiting a retail store or cafe and have a fantastic experience with a particular staff member, there are other ways to show appreciation beyond leaving a tip. Of course, you can thank them for going above and beyond and being so helpful. But you might also consider making a phone call or sending an email to share details of your positive interaction.

An email is an excellent option because the business owner or manager can read it when they have time. Be sure to mention the employee's name when sharing your experience. You may help that staff member get the recognition they deserve and help brighten their day. It might even lead to a bonus for them, or perhaps a more generous raise from their employer. This solution lets you give thanks without depleting the funds in your bank account.

Keep extra change on hand for small tips

At many cafes and fast-service restaurants, customers order and collect their food or drinks at a counter and have minimal interactions with employees. In these situations, you may want to give some thanks but don't want to leave a 20% tip, since you didn't receive full service.

You can show appreciation without breaking the bank by leaving a small cash tip instead. You can keep change and $1 bills in your wallet for these situations by leaving a small tip in the tip jar. You show appreciation without overtipping or racking up an expensive credit card bill.

Leave a good review

Small businesses especially appreciate feedback. It helps them discover their strengths and find ways to improve to meet the needs of their customers. When people like you share their experiences, it can encourage others in the community to support another local business.

If you want to show appreciation for a great experience, you can leave an online review. Leaving a review on Facebook, Yelp, or Google Maps is a simple way to make a significant impact. It costs you nothing, takes minimal time, and can help the business increase its customer base.

Save your generosity for holidays and special occasions

If you tend to be a more generous tipper but want to get better at following a budget, you may want to alter your tipping strategy. Instead of always leaving a bigger-than-expected tip, save your extra generosity for holidays and special occasions. Your extra appreciation is appreciated, especially if it's someone you interact with regularly, like your hairdresser or esthetician.

But if you're always leaving a big tip, it could make reaching your financial goals harder because you'll have less money left in your wallet. It's okay to be generous, but you don't have to go above and beyond every time you leave a tip. The next time you're about to leave a tip, consider implementing one of the above strategies so you can give thanks without going broke.