In live poker rooms, tipping the dealer isn’t just a nice gesture: it’s part of the culture. But how much to tip? When? Does it change in cash games versus tournaments? And are there situations where tipping is a bad move?

Worry not! Here’s your all-in-one guide to tipping the dealer like a true professional, avoiding awkward moments and maximizing both etiquette and EV!

DO: Tip After a Big Pot in Cash Games

Winning a decent pot? It’s standard to tip the dealer something. Usually around 1%, depending on the size. High-stakes players might tip more, but the rule of thumb is simple: if the dealer dealt you a clean, smooth hand, and you won, tip modestly.

Pro insight: Many regulars tip $1 for average pots and up to $5–$10 for pots over $500.

DON’T: Tip in a Tournament (Usually)

In tournaments, tipping is typically handled through the prize pool, as a percentage is already taken out as a dealer fee. Unless you ship the entire thing or you got a monster first prize thanks to a smooth hand, you’re not expected to tip separately.

Exception: If you win a large payout on the final table, some players tip a fixed % (e.g., 1-3%) as a goodwill gesture. This is not required and some places explictely asks players not to.

DO: Keep It in Chips, Not Coins or Cash

Always tip with casino chips when possible, not coins or crumpled bills. Tossing a $1 chip to the dealer is clean, respectful, and efficient. It also ensures the dealer can easily drop it into the toke box without fumbling.

Pro move: Keep a few $1 chips separate for tipping. This avoids stalling the game while you break larger stacks.

DON’T: Over-Tip Out of Emotion

Just made a huge bluff? Took in a monster pot? Stay calm. Tipping $20+ might feel good in the moment, but emotion-based tipping can get expensive fast, and signal to the table you are not a composed, calm and professional player. Keep it classy, keep it consistent.

Remember: You're tipping for service, not to “pay back the poker gods.”

DO: Tip for Great Dealing is... Not Just Wins!

Sometimes, a dealer runs a complex split pot flawlessly, handles a rules dispute smoothly, or just keeps the vibe light and respectful. If you’re impressed with the professionalism, tipping even without winning is totally appropriate and deeply appreciated.

Just a Final Thought

Tipping the dealer is like shaking hands after a good game. It shows respect, awareness, and that you belong at the table. Just like reading tells or knowing pot odds, mastering when and how to tip is part of being a complete player.