Should You Tip Your Dealer?

7 December 2024

By Jerry Stickman

From Teri.

Mr. Stickman,

I am a neophyte when it comes to playing blackjack (or truth be told, any casino game). I really enjoy being able to sit and relax at a table in a nice comfortable chair while playing the game. I also enjoy the banter and camaraderie between the players. Sometimes the dealer will join in, making it even more fun.

I notice that, at times, other players will make a bet for the dealer. I never do that. I figure the dealer gets paid to deal. It seems the casino does quite well for itself based on the times I have played the game.

The dealer has to play by certain rules. It is not like the dealer could do anything that would help you, is it?

Also, tipping the dealer will not change the flow of the cards. There is no way the dealer can deal you more winners or less losers if you tip, is there?

You have been around for a while. What do you recommend?

Teri


Hi Teri,

Thank you for your question. I will try to answer it to your satisfaction.

There are a few widespread beliefs about blackjack dealers – as well as other dealers and pit personnel. One of the most common is that dealers want the house to win. This may be true in some of the smaller operations where dealers might be evaluated on how much they take in.

Dealers in larger casinos are in general NOT rated on how much the table takes in. The casinos are big enough to know that given enough play, the casino will come out on top.

Also, most dealers prefer to have the players win. Some may hate their jobs and hope players lose and go away, but this is the exception.

Think of the game from their vantage point. If all players at their table lose and nobody wins, the dealer’s life becomes less enjoyable (if it ever is enjoyable for them). Losing players become irritated. They can become cranky. They can even become angry. Who are they angry at? The dealer. It is the dealer that is the cause of all their problems – or so they believe.

If the players are winning – or at least not bleeding money - the demeanor of the table is better. Players are less stressed and easier going. Players begin talking to each other – enjoying their time at the table.

Another common belief is dealers are paid at least a living wage. That is not true. Their pay factors in tips to make it a living wage.

Being a dealer is a brutal job. They are on their feet constantly. They have to keep sharp mentally, making sure they tally each hand properly. They need to accurately collect or pay all the wagers. Would you want to be a dealer? I certainly would not.

To your question, you are not required to tip. The dealer will most likely treat you the same regardless of whether or not you tip. As you mentioned, the dealer has to play the game a certain way. There is nothing the dealer can do differently if you tip.

But if you tip – and I like to tip regularly, but not every or even every other hand – tip because of the service you are receiving.

Does the dealer just go through the motions without a smile or comment? Does the dealer appear annoyed at having to do the job? If so, do not tip.

It may be a grueling job, but the job is customer service. The dealer has to be an actor. If he or she does not perform as a good customer service person, in my opinion, they do not deserve a tip – just like in a restaurant.

Is the dealer pleasant? Does the dealer treat you as if you matter? Is the dealer doing a great job of customer service? If so, tip. It is hard enough to simply do the job of dealer. If it is done in a pleasant and respectful manner, it should be rewarded just like good service in a restaurant.

Ultimately, it is up to you. Maybe a little thought about the golden rule helps – do unto others as you would have them do unto you.

As always, may all your wins be swift and large, and your losses be slow and small.

Jerry “Stickman”

Jerry “Stickman” is an expert in craps, blackjack and video poker and advantage slot machine play. He is a regular contributor to top gaming magazines and 888casino.com. He authored the video poker section of “Everything Casino Poker: Get the Edge at Video Poker, Texas Hold'em, Omaha Hi-Lo, and Pai Gow Poker!” You can contact Jerry “Stickman” at stickmanjerryg@gmail.com