Tip is the amount a gambler gives to a dealer as a token for the dealer’s good service. The better service a player receives the bigger tip he should be willing to give. Most gamblers go to a casino to have fun. They like the ambiance, the settings, the shows, and the high profiled life associated with it. They don’t really mind losing a few dollars for a fun filled night.  

The question is not actually whether to tip or not, but how much to tip. There is really no basic formula in giving tips as it depends on a person’s preference. There are variables you have to consider. One of them is the quality of service you receive from the dealer. You also have to consider you bankroll, your winnings (or losses), and how much tip other gamblers are giving.    

Talking about quality service, I have encountered a few dealers that don’t deserve even a penny of my money. These dealers not only give poor service, but they are discourteous, and they insult gamblers. Do you think there aren’t dealers that insult players? Well, try playing in a low limit table in the Philippine casinos. I can speak from experience because I have encountered a few. But in fairness, there are also dealers insulted by gamblers. These happen in the high limit tables. Have you seen a dealer slapped in the face with cards? In our lingo, we call it “mawos mawos lang!”

In my case, I have developed a formula in tipping a dealer, and that is, I only give tip when I am already through playing. While I am still “in action” I refrain from giving tips. There is nothing more frustrating than not being able to play anymore because you are already out of money because you have given it away as tips. So I made a rule: I never give tip for as long as I am still playing. I only give tip when I am leaving the casino, and it’s usually about from 5 to 20 per cent on the amount I won. Of course you can give a smaller or a bigger amount than that.   

Should a gambler still give a tip even if he lost? Well, it all depends on you. In my case I usually do especially if I like the dealer. Only it would usually be in small amount compared to if I won. Remember that even if you lose, you have a fun filled time anyway, and besides, the dealer was giving his best to give you excellent service.

Philippine dealers are not refrained by the management when they coax gamblers into giving tips, and that is what some dealers usually do. I know this practice is not the norm in other casinos in other countries. There is no more annoying to my ears than hearing the dealer holler: “Well then, wheres for the boys?” As if giving a tip after every win is my obligation.