5+ Money Etiquettes Every Classy Person Should Know!

Merriam-Webster defines etiquette as “the conduct or procedure required by good breeding or prescribed by authority to be observed in social or official life.” In short, your conduct about money, especially tipping in restaurants, usually shows how well-mannered you are (and with this, comes the respect from other people who’d see such conduct).

It varies around the world but in the U.S., these are rules that classy people follow:

Sharing expenses with others can be tough, whether it's for your daily coffee or for a big vacation. Here are some money etiquette tips to make sure everyone is happy, be it with your friends, family, or your partner.

Having a plan for how to split the check in restaurants can save a lot of frustration and conflict later. To avoid potential conflict, it's best to broach the topic of who will pay the bill before it arrives. Avoid making assumptions about what others are comfortable with- whether that means splitting the check evenly or dividing it based on what each person ordered. The goal is to come up with a system that works for everyone involved.

Generally, it is good manners to tip your waiter/waitress at a sit-down restaurant. Most people add on an extra 15-20% of the meal's cost as a gratuity. This customarily shows appreciation for everything your server does - from taking your order and serving you food and drinks, to checking up on you periodically throughout the meal. Since many restaurant employees don't even make minimum wage, tips essentially become part of their salary.

How about in coffee shops?While you don't need to tip at coffee shops, rounding up to the nearest dollar is always appreciated. If the barista was particularly helpful, you could leave a 20% tip.

The following are Emily Post Institute guidelines for tipping in various industries:

- Hotel housekeepers should be given $2-$5 per day.

- For hairstylists, and other beauty professionals, add 15-20% to the bill.

- Food delivery tips should be 10-15% of the bill (in addition to the delivery fee).

- Taxi drivers should receive a 15-20% tip.

- When your car is returned by a valet driver, give them $2-$5 as a tip.

1. It's impolite to ask someone you just met how much they earn.

2. Don’t ever debt-shame your friends.

3. Never try to push your money mindset on other people.

4. If you have to ask a family member for money, always be polite.

Your conduct and behavior when money is involved tell a lot about you. Act professional in every way and be honest about your financial health. Create healthy financial boundaries and be mindful of others’ sensitivity about their own finances.