[theRabbit]

Assuming you are serious..FYI…

When I played semi-professionally in the '70's I had similar feelings. I really needed the $$ to pay for things like rent and food. I now feel that not tipping is probably always a mistake, both from an ethical as well as pragmatic point of view.

Just my thoughts but I hope they help. Tipping is important for numbers of reasons. (If it matter when reading this I almost only play 3-6 limit hold’em where the rake plus jackpot usually equals the blinds so it is a significant factor. So is the extra income.)

I usually tip $1 if the pot is over $10 (which is almost always). If the pot is big (say over $100) I might tip $2 or even more, especially if I just sucked out. You can vary the ranges slightly to adjust your tipping amount.

1) When you go someplace where tipping is usual, there is an implied, unwritten contract, between you and the service provider, that when you use the service, you will tip. The only exception might be if the service is really bad. That’s just the way it is and your denying it will not change the fact. So if you do not like it, take it up with the management. The dealer's income depends heavily on tips.

2) If you do not tip, the dealer and everyone at the table will quickly notice. This includes not tipping other service persons like waiter/waitress. People will notice even more so if you are tight plus do not tip. At the limit I play, keeping the game fun and happy is super important. Most people are playing to have a good time and gamble it up. I do not want a fun but loose player using cheapness as an excuse to leave the table. It has happened on occasion. Everyone else also seems to notice this. Dealing is hard work and dealers depend on tips for salary, frequently to support their family.

3) A dealer should always give good service but, pragmatically, better service is better. The dealer has a certain amount of discretion. For example, a dealer can protect your hand better if you fail to do so. It has happened to me more than once and the result can be significant.

4) I am sure you’ve heard the expression “What goes around comes around”. If you do not believe it now, you will some day. Yes it adds up, but I really believe the alternative is worse.

In the end, you will make you own decision anyway. If it effects your game it will effect your bottom line.