Tipping the poker dealer: when and how much
In many live poker rooms, players give the dealer a small tip (also called a “toke”) after winning a pot. In some places dealers rely on tips for a large part of their income; in others, tipping is rare. Customs differ by country and by casino, so watch what regulars do or ask the floor.
Cash games
Section titled “Cash games”- In places where tipping is common (for example many US card rooms), players often tip a small chip after winning a pot, more for bigger pots.
- You don’t tip when you lose, and usually not when you win just the blinds.
- In many European casinos tipping is less common or handled differently; some rooms have a tip box at the table.
Tournaments
Section titled “Tournaments”- Many tournaments include a staff fee in the buy-in, sometimes shown separately. See first live tournament.
- Players who cash often leave an additional tip for the staff, typically a small percentage of their winnings, where that’s the custom.
How to tip
Section titled “How to tip”- Push the chip toward the dealer after the pot is pushed to you, or say “for you”.
- Don’t toss chips across the table.
- Tip in chips at the table; you don’t need cash.
Should beginners tip?
Section titled “Should beginners tip?”Follow the local custom. If unsure, a small tip after a good pot is a friendly gesture where tipping is normal. It’s never required, and you shouldn’t feel pressured — but dealers remember friendly players.
See also poker etiquette and casino poker room.
Should I tip the poker dealer?
Section titled “Should I tip the poker dealer?”Follow the local custom. Where tipping is common, players tip a small chip after winning a pot.
Do you tip when you lose a hand?
Section titled “Do you tip when you lose a hand?”No. Tips are usually given only after winning a pot.
Do you tip in poker tournaments?
Section titled “Do you tip in poker tournaments?”Many buy-ins include a staff fee; where it’s the custom, players who cash may tip extra.
Is tipping the same in every country?
Section titled “Is tipping the same in every country?”No. It is common in some places, such as many US card rooms, and less common in many European casinos.