Guide to NYC Tipping & Sales Tax

Photo: Methuselah Choi

Tipping Let’s face it. It’s not always fun to tack a few extra bucks of your hard-earned money onto a bill. But since New Yorkers in the service industries (hotels, restaurants and transportation) have tips factored into their wages, tips are expected and greatly appreciated. You don’t have to go overboard, but be sure to show the love for great New York City service. Here's how much you should tip:

• Hotel doorman: $1 for hailing a cab.
• Porters and bellhops: $1–$2 per bag.
• Housekeeping: $1–$2 per day of your visit, or as much as $5 per day.
• Wait staff and bartenders: 15–20% of total bill.
• Taxi drivers: 15–20% of total fare.
• Hairdressers: 15–20% of total service cost.
• Tips for other service personnel, such as theater ushers, tour guides and coat-check staff, are always appreciated.

One more thing: if you’re having drinks at a bar, bartenders typically expect at least a $1 tip for every drink they serve you. Later on, when the bar gets crowded, you’ll be glad that the bartender remembers you!

Sales Tax
Buyer beware: while the price tag may say one thing, prices marked typically don’t include tax. New York City sales tax on goods and services is 8.875%. But there are a few exceptions:

• No sales tax on food items purchased at grocery stores, or on prescription drugs.
• No sales tax on clothing or footwear under $110.

Information courtesy of NYCGO