Money 2 min read

Should I tip on a coffee?

TL;DR · 15 sec

It's a gray zone created by Square asking the question on every checkout. Counter service was never expected to tip pre-2020. Now it's awkward for both sides. There's no objectively right answer; pick a habit and stop second-guessing.

The history

Tipping in the US was historically for table service. Counter service (coffee, fast food, takeaway) was below the line. Bartenders sometimes, baristas no.

What changed

Square + Toast added tip prompts to every transaction starting around 2020. Suddenly every counter is a tipping question. The norm is being rewritten in real time.

A working answer

10% if you pay attention or they did something special. Skip otherwise. The point is your peace of mind, not the algorithm’s prompt. Pick a rule and apply it.