Tipping culture has definitely changed over the years. The expectations have increased, and it can seem like more and more of the burden of a service industry worker’s salary is put on the customer than it is the management. This can feel unfair to folks who might be bootstrapped themselves but don’t want to put out another worker. Generally, though, we accept that we need to tip because not only is it the right thing to do, but because it might be a make-or-break deal for the person on the receiving end of those tips. It might be the difference between them being able to pay their rent and not. Whether or not you think this system is fair (almost nobody does), this is the reality. 

How does this factor, though, when the service you get is not what you expected? Should this be communicated in the tip line on your check, or do you swallow your pride and tip anyway? Just how much should you short them if you’re upset?