Otherwise, as long as the game is being dealt in a professional, pleasant manner, it is appropriate to tip your dealer periodically regardless of whether you’re winning or losing. Needless to say, I didn’t fork over a gratuity, and he didn’t deserve one. Every time I lost a big bet, the dealer would grin and say, “ouch!” or, “that’s gotta hurt!” as he swiped my chips away. I remember playing blackjack one time at a Strip casino and getting crushed by a terrible run of cards. Once in a blue moon, you will come across an unprofessional dealer. Their job is simply to deal the game and keep things moving along. The dealers don’t get a cut of your losses, nor do they get penalized if you win a bunch of the casino’s money. It’s also why contrary to popular belief, they actually want to see you win.

This attitude is understandable, and dealers are used to it. A player on a losing streak tends to think, “the casino’s gotten enough of money. This is where it can start to feel personal. The big difference between the two professions is that part of the dealer’s job is to take your money when you lose. The base salary for dealers is usually minimum wage, or close to it.Ī good dealer, like a good waiter, is going to serve you in a professional and courteous manner.

There are, however, some general rules of thumb-and some misconceptions that deserve to be cleared up.Ī lot of players fail to understand that dealers are part of the service industry and rely on tips to make a living. There’s really no “correct” percentage, as there is with a restaurant bill. Nevertheless, there’s quite a bit of confusion over when, and how much, it’s appropriate to tip dealers and other casino personnel. We, at Casino Player, certainly hope it has at least crossed your mind after all, you wouldn’t stiff the valet or the guy who lugged your bags up to your room, would you? So why should it be any different with the person who’s been dealing your cards for the past hour? To tip, or not to tip? It’s a question you’ve probably wondered about at times in the casino. Editorial Staff | Posted on Decem| How gratuities work in the casino, and why a little generosity can go a long way By Rob Wiser

How much tip blackjack dealer