AP: Is tipping getting out of control? Many consumers say yes

[hlthe2b]

2. It isn't so much they ask if you want to add an electronic tip but that some of those apps DEFAULT

to 20% or higher. Now, I'm willing to tip 20% for full and very good in-restaurant service-- I consider it part of the "splurge," and if someone goes the extra mile--even at a drive-through for coffee, but I don't want it to default to 20, 25, 30%. Include the old 15% standard and a blank option--as well as no tip if the service was poor.

Don't get me wrong, I have great empathy for those who are working at less than liveable wages and dependant on tips to make some difference. That is why I do tip-- and whenever possible, tip very well, but just let the customer make the choice.

Honestly, I think the jars on the shelf of the drive-through or counter inside remain better ideas. Percentage-wise they probably do better with customers habitually dropping all their returned change or a dollar or two in there. But, there is something about those digital apps with their default programming that I think is ranking people.