In 2025, Americans are feeling less pressured to “guilt tip” compared to previous years, according to a new survey. The average respondent reported spending $283 annually on tips they didn’t want to give due to social pressure, down from $453 in 2024 – a 38% decrease. The monthly “guilt tipping” average dropped from 6.3 times in 2024 to 4.2 times in 2025. While some still feel compelled to over-tip, nearly half say they rarely or never do so out of pressure. The rising cost of living has led 41% to reduce their tips, and over a fifth now tip less across the board. However, many still aim to support workers, with 32% tipping more for that reason. Businesses paying employees more instead of relying on tips is favored by 78% of respondents. (Talker Research)

PHONE TOPIC: When is the last time you made a decision out of guilt?