What usually creates "high tip stress"
- Tip requests before service (for example, paying before food arrives).
- High default buttons (especially presets starting at 25%+).
- Unclear fee language like "hospitality" or "wellness" charges with no explanation.
- A second tip prompt after an included gratuity has already been added.
Fast checkout checklist
- Read the receipt line items before selecting a tip button.
- Look for "service charge" or "gratuity included" first.
- If defaults are high, choose a custom amount instead of tapping quickly.
- If the flow is confusing, ask: "Is tip already included?"
Our stance
We are not anti-worker and not anti-tipping. We are anti-surprise. Diners should know the full checkout experience before they order, not after.
That is why What The Tips tracks prompt style, default percentages, service charges, and timing to reflect real checkout pressure.