Gratuity

Gratuity is the English word for tip, especially common in American business and service contexts. It's distinct from a "service charge", which is added to your bill automatically and may or may not go to staff, whereas a gratuity is voluntary and given directly. In the US, gratuity is the main source of income for most service workers (minimum wage for tipped employees can be as low as $2.13/hour in some states). Standard amounts: 18% at casual restaurants, 20-25% at fine dining, $1-2 per bag for bellhops, $3-5 per night for housekeeping (left daily, in cash on the desk), $5-20 for a concierge depending on the request. When the menu says "gratuity not included," tip on top.