The Disney Tipping Info Thread *Updated 9.1.09*

[TDC Nala]

I understand that when dining at a TS, you are supposed to let your server know that you are using the DDP and hand them your KTTW.

Does this make the level of service go down? I.E. the server assumes they might get a lower tip, especially if it's free DDP.

Would it make sense to have a card printed stating that I usually tip about 25% for excellent service, and give that card along with the KTTW at the beginning of the meal?

There is no reason to believe so as the tip is no longer included in DDP. The only included tip is for parties of six or more. Any decent server would understand that if they treat you like crap depending on whether or not they THINK you will give them a small tip they're going to get a small tip anyway.

You can hand or tell the server anything you want about the amount you usually tip, but I don't think it's necessary. No one with any sense is going to assume that you're going to tip small because you are on free dining.

 

[Tinkerbella001]

Thanks Trish! What I was wondering was how much I am going to spend, then figuring the 18%-20% is a cinch. The restaurants I've looked up give a price "range"...so how do I know? For example the buffets - should I just figure on the highest figure for everyone, and then if it's less I'll be surprised?

Also, do they figure the 18% on total, including tax? I know it sounds silly, but we have a party of 10 so it could make a difference, especially since they probably have a really high tourism tax.

 

[Tricia1972]

Thanks Trish! What I was wondering was how much I am going to spend, then figuring the 18%-20% is a cinch. The restaurants I've looked up give a price "range"...so how do I know? For example the buffets - should I just figure on the highest figure for everyone, and then if it's less I'll be surprised?

Also, do they figure the 18% on total, including tax? I know it sounds silly, but we have a party of 10 so it could make a difference, especially since they probably have a really high tourism tax.

Kids (ages 3-9) will be the low end of the range, and adults will be the high end of the range. Hopefully that helps you in your calculations.

The 18% is pre-tax, so no worries there, and just so you're aware for any OOP expenses - taxes most places are 6.5% for food, souvenirs, etc.

 

[jenseib]

Anyone who has been recently with DDP, can you give me a ballpark figure for what the 18% auto-gratuity is? I know each one will vary, but just ballpark. We are going to try to get Ohana's breakfast and Chef Mickey's, for example...Thanks!

Thanks Trish! What I was wondering was how much I am going to spend, then figuring the 18%-20% is a cinch. The restaurants I've looked up give a price "range"...so how do I know? For example the buffets - should I just figure on the highest figure for everyone, and then if it's less I'll be surprised?

Also, do they figure the 18% on total, including tax? I know it sounds silly, but we have a party of 10 so it could make a difference, especially since they probably have a really high tourism tax.

It will totally depend on how big yout party is. But buffets are fixed prices for adults and kids, so that is easy to figure out. Just go to one of the menu sites and you can find the prices, or close to the current price at least and go from there.

 

[catherines_mama]

Okay, I've read through about 20 of the 90 pages... and am still confused.

Like many others, I forgot ALL about planning for tips! SO I'm scrambling to make sure I'm educated on it all.

QUESTION 1:
I've gone through our ADR list and have an idea of how much we need for tipping, no problem, but with DDP and KTTW how EXACTLY does it work?

The receipt comes, Is there a TIP line, I add the tip then they charge that to my KTTW? Do I get a copy of that receipt?

If you pay with cash and only have say 2 $20s. and want to tip $15. Do you ask for change?

I'm just not at all used to not putting dinner and the tip on the same tab.


QUESTION 2:
When we reserved our package, we had to get 2 reservations, DD and I weren't on the same EXACT plan as we have APs. (we have 2 rooms anyway). So Steve and I are on 2 different reservations, 2 different DDPs.
Will we need to split EVERY tab?

QUESTION 3:
Steve's parents are meeting us for 'Ohana dinner 6/21. We want to pay for their meal for Father's Day (and they are coming over to see us). They will not be on DDP, so I'll just charge it on KTTW. We'll have 7 people but if we have to split all tabs, Steve will have 3 on his, I'll have 4 on mine, will 18% be added? IF it is added, to they notify you of this?

Okay.. I think I'm okay now.. just a little scatter brained today.

 

[Tricia1972]

QUESTION 1:
I've gone through our ADR list and have an idea of how much we need for tipping, no problem, but with DDP and KTTW how EXACTLY does it work?

Write down how much you want to tip on the tip line and ask them to charge that amount to your KTTW card.



The receipt comes, Is there a TIP line, I add the tip then they charge that to my KTTW? Do I get a copy of that receipt?

I believe so, but can't say for sure. I've not used the DDP since 2007 when tips were included.

If you pay with cash and only have say 2 $20s. and want to tip $15. Do you ask for change?

I am guessing that this is a Typo and you meant 2 10's . You could always give them a 20 or two 10's with the folio and ask "Could I get five singles back please?" It's not wrong at all, but honestly I don't know that I'd be comfortable doing that, and would probably opt to carry the right change with me.

I'm just not at all used to not putting dinner and the tip on the same tab.

You really won't be, they need to take your KTTW card for the DDP. They'll swipe the card for credits and then charge your tip to your card. It's super easy.

QUESTION 2:
When we reserved our package, we had to get 2 reservations, DD and I weren't on the same EXACT plan as we have APs. (we have 2 rooms anyway). So Steve and I are on 2 different reservations, 2 different DDPs.
Will we need to split EVERY tab?

Yes. This is very simple, and the servers are great with this. Let them know who is with who, and the server will swipe the appropriate card. Do NOT let the server talk you into using the same card. The rules are VERY clear, and if one server does it against the rules, it can really mess up your credits! (Some servers will try to talk a person into swiping one card, and I have heard of many instances where people end up paying OOP for meals due to the wrong credits being on the wrong cards.

It sounds really complicated, but it's not. Just make sure your bills are separated and you give the server your card to cover your bill.

QUESTION 3:
Steve's parents are meeting us for 'Ohana dinner 6/21. We want to pay for their meal for Father's Day (and they are coming over to see us). They will not be on DDP, so I'll just charge it on KTTW. We'll have 7 people but if we have to split all tabs, Steve will have 3 on his, I'll have 4 on mine, will 18% be added? IF it is added, to they notify you of this?

18% will be added to your bills. There will be a tip line for you to add additional gratuity if you choose.

I know that they do not tell you about the auto gratuity when you use the TiW card, and I'd assume that they don't specifically mention it in instances like this as well. No worries, the bill shows how much your tipping as it's listed as a separate line item on your bill. Just give the server your KTTW card and let them know to charge the balance (meals and gratuity) to the card.

Okay.. I think I'm okay now.. just a little scatter brained today.

My turn for a question - who is Steve?

 

[catherines_mama]

My turn for a question - who is Steve?

He's my DBF. We're getting married in Sept, so I really usually call him DH. Its easier just to call him Steve.

 

[Tricia1972]

He's my DBF. We're getting married in Sept, so I really usually call him DH. Its easier just to call him Steve.

Got it! Thanks and Congratulations on the upcoming wedding!!

 

[stric12345]

I am on the DDP in September. When I made my ADR for CRT breakfast, the CM said it would be 2 table service credits, and tax and gratuity are included. The menu on all ears says gratuity is not included? Does anyone know? Also, is the picture package included with breakfast? Thanks so much for your help!

 

[tmanaster]

Gratuity is included. At least it was last summer when we went! It was also included at Hoop de Doo. We just tipped a little extra at each. Have fun!

 

[bell.of.the.ball]

I am heading down in August with a group of 12. I know 18% will be added to the check.. What do you do if you have lousy service and so not feel the server deserves that amount of tip? Am I forced to tip a waiter who might not deserve it?

 

[Tricia1972]

I am heading down in August with a group of 12. I know 18% will be added to the check.. What do you do if you have lousy service and so not feel the server deserves that amount of tip? Am I forced to tip a waiter who might not deserve it?

The 18% is an auto gratuity and you are correct that it's just part of your bill. To have the amount adjusted you need to speak to a manager. Hopefully you can snag the manager during the meal, poor service has an adverse affect on your entire meal experience. The sooner that the situation is addressed the better.

 

[Cynthiagayle01]

I've scanned the board a little bit but couldn't find a definite answer. Are tips included at CRT? If you are using the ddp, will it take 2 ts credits per person or 2 per group? It will just be me (29) and my sis (28).

 

[lisalonglash]

I've scanned the board a little bit but couldn't find a definite answer. Are tips included at CRT? If you are using the ddp, will it take 2 ts credits per person or 2 per group? It will just be me (29) and my sis (28).

Here is the definitive answer from the Disney Dining Plan official brochure:

Please Note: Two Table Service meals for each person dining at Cinderella’s Royal Table will be redeemed from your meal plan
balance. Gratuities are included

Here's the link to the PDF brochure:
http://adisneyworld.disney.go.com/m...09 Disney Dining Plan - Walt Disney World.pdf

Have a great sister trip!

 

[MAYNARDS99]

Yes at CRT tips are included, and 2 TS credits are due for EACH person dining there. See page 3 of the Disney Dining Plan guide, link below.

http://adisneyworld.disney.go.com/m...especific/eng/nontheme/tickets/2009Dining.pdf

 

[Tinkerbella001]

When I made my ressie. For CRT she told me there would be an 18% gratuity due to party over 6. Anyone know if this is true? I hate to use 2 credits and tip not be included.

 

[bicker]

See below!

 

[Tricia1972]

It is true. Tax and gratuity are extra, at CRT.

I am sorry, but you're wrong Bicker. Gratuities are included on the DDP at CRT.

If you look at the DDP brochures, there is a capital G in a purple box next to restaurants where the gratuities are included. There is a G designating that gratuities are included for CRT breakfast, lunch and dinner.

As always, with the DDP, Tax is included.

 

[jenseib]

For CRT, it's included even while NOT on the DDP. We went in March and the price was that and no more , and we payed OOP for that one. The tip and tax is included in the price of CRT, HoopDEEDoo, Spirit of Aloha, and Mickey's Backyard BBQ.

 

[jeffiner1978]

We are traveling with family and the tip will be added automatically b/c of large group. My question is this, since we are all paying our on way is there a way to split the bill so we can all see what each families portion of the tip should be?