Ask 10 strangers about tipping etiquette and you’ll get 10 different answers. While there is some grey area, many aspects of tipping are non-negotiable (lest you be judged by your pals for stiffing a server). Avoid the cheapskate label with these guidelines.

At a restaurant

Although the Toronto Star recently reported that 20 percent is becoming the new normal, 15 percent (usually on the before-tax total) is still a standard tip for reasonable service. This means the server was polite, efficient and anticipated your needs (like offering wine that pairs well, or refilling a water glass without being asked). If she goes above and beyond, the tip should reflect that: 20 percent or higher. But is it ever OK not to tip?

Etiquette expert Louise Fox says no. If the service is truly terrible, leave a smaller tip and speak to the manager. Leaving nothing is spiteful and won’t make you look like a big shot in front of your peers. Plus, it’s especially cruel if the perceived poor service was not the fault of the server.

And if you can’t afford to tip at all, then get in line at McDonald’s. “If you’re not willing to pay up to 20 percent for a tip,” says Fox, “you’re probably living beyond your means.”

When travelling

Fox highly suggests tipping hotel staff, as they will definitely notice and treat you accordingly. Tip $2 to $5 per night for maids (just leave the cash beside a note on the dresser) and $1 per bag for a bellhop. Give $5 to $20 to the concierge, depending on how much help you get — wait until the end of your stay, and hand it over when you check out.

At a salon or spa

Typically, professionals such as registered massage therapists don’t receive tips — this would be like “tipping your doctor,” says Fox. “If you’re unsure, call ahead to ask about the tipping policy. There are times where it’s iffy and it’s OK to ask.”

But a tip of no less than 10 percent is expected in hair and nail salons, and most spas. The only exception is when you’re receiving service from the business owner, in which case you’re not required to tip.

In a cab

Fox usually rounds her fare up to the nearest $5, making sure to leave at least a toonie. “If it’s a short ride, I’ll tip a bit more because it takes them out of the lineup for better paying jobs.” Like servers, cab drivers rely on tips in an otherwise poorly paid profession. Try a cab-hailing app like Uber (not available in every Canadian city, but they are expanding), where the tip is built in to the price and gets applied automatically.

At a coffee shop

It’s not required, but it’s a nice gesture to toss some change in the jar at your favourite coffee joint, especially if the baristas are friendly and take special care with your order.

Final takeaway

When in doubt, remember that the point of a tip is to both encourage and reward good service. You might also consider writing a good review (gold for the service industry) or leaving a note for the manager to praise excellent service — you’ll make someone’s day and it won’t cost you a penny.