WHEN you call an Uber or Lyft, even for a very short ride, don’t talk yourself out of tipping your driver.
Etiquette experts explained why it’s so important to tip your driver, how much to allocate, and the one major exception to the rule.
There’s a contingent of Uber customers who believe they only need to tip their driver under certain circumstances, like on airport trips where they need help loading and unloading bags.
But that’s a common faux pas, international etiquette consultant Julia Boyd told the New York Times. As long as your service isn’t terrible, you should absolutely leave a tip, she recommended.
“Many Uber trips can be more expensive than a standard cab,” Boyd explained. “However, a standard cab offers a standard service.”
Because Uber drivers often provide water, phone chargers, and other amenities for their passengers, the higher price is not intended to include the gratuity.
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Boyd said you should tip 10 percent for average service, between 10 and 15 percent for good service, and up to 20 percent for exceptional service.
Of course, if you want to go above and beyond for your driver and can afford it, more compensation is always welcome.
The Uber and Lyft apps have a limit on how much you can tip – 200 percent of the ride’s cost – so if you want to be especially generous, bring cash with you.
Depending on how many rides a driver provides in a week, and the costs of tolls and other associated fees in your area, tips can represent a major portion of their income.
When those costs are factored in, along with fuel and car maintenance, many Uber and Lyft drivers make under $15 per hour, according to USA Today.
When you’re using Uber Eats, Postmates, or similar app-driven delivery services, the rules are a bit different.
Make sure that your tip for a food delivery surpasses a set minimum – and if 15 or 20 percent isn’t enough, be ready to tip a little more.
According to rideshare resource Ridester, when you order delivery food, set aside a minimum tip amount of $4 to $6, no matter how small your order.
Even if you only bought a $3 coffee, your delivery could require the same amount of driving – or biking – distance as a full meal.
“You should also consider the weather your delivery driver has to endure,” USA Today recommended.
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If you’re ordering food instead of picking it up yourself due to rain, snow, or extreme heat, you should properly compensate your driver for facing the inclement conditions.
Of course, if you have a negative experience with food delivery or a ride, you’re not obligated to tip at all. If your driver is discriminatory or makes you feel unsafe, make sure to flag their behavior right away in the app.
