Millions of Brits avoid leaving a tip if they have to use a debit or credit card

A study of 2,000 adults revealed millions of Brits will avoid leaving a tip if they have to use a debit or credit card. When it comes to tipping methods, cash is still king, with 58% preferring to tip with coins, loose change or notes - compared to just 15% who opt for card. In fact, 39% are more likely to leave a bigger tip when tipping with cash and 21% said they only leave a tip if they have cash to hand.

But in general, 17% claim they are tipping less than they used to due to the decline of physical money, as card payments become more popular. Cash remains the favoured method due to its more personal feel, concerns over card-based tips not going to who they're intended for and people's wish to control the exact amount by choosing it themselves.

As many as 80% revealed they have avoided tipping if the only option was doing so electronically. However, 24% admit they tip less now than they used to due to the cost of living, with more than half saying they feel more pressure to tip when card machines suggest preset amounts or percentages.

For 36%, tipping is more or less the only time they ever use cash, with 60% keeping cash on them specifically for this purpose.

Ross Borkett, banking director at Post Office, which commissioned the research, said: "Digital payments are a fundamental part of modern life - except when it comes to tipping. Our research shows that for so many people, handing over a coin or a note feels more personal than using a card, and gives reassurance that their tip goes directly to the person they intend it for.

However, he added: "The data also shows a third of people are more likely to leave a tip at Christmas. As people head out for festive gatherings in the months ahead, cash remains a simple, trusted and meaningful way to say thank you - and at Post Office we're proud to help people stay connected by providing free cash withdrawals and deposits across our branches."

The research found restaurants, taxis and hairdressers are the places most likely to get a tip from consumers. And one in five are likely to increase the amount they would tip to try and impress someone.

When it comes to service-based apps like Uber and Deliveroo, 36% like the built-in fee options so they don't need to work out how much to tip, but in contrast, 34% feel cheated as a result.

It also emerged that of those who have ever worked in a job where they received tips, 46% said it made them feel appreciated, while 39% felt happy and grateful, according to the OnePoll data.

Dr Catherine Wilkholm, chartered clinical psychologist, explains how cash tips can impact both the tipper and the receiver. She said: "As humans we are wired to seek social validation and have a core need to feel seen and appreciated by others.

"Receiving a tip reinforces a sense of competence and being valued, experiences which over time strengthen self-esteem and confidence.

"Giving a tip can activate the brain's reward circuitry, giving the tipper a mood boost that psychologists call the 'helper's high' and can also increase feelings of social connection and trust.

"When we physically hand money to someone, it feels real and meaningful, activating a neurological response such as releasing dopamine and a psychological response like a feeling of connection.

"Handing over cash is tangible, social and sensory - it activates more of a neurological response than card tipping and can enhance the psychological rewards."

1.Restaurant - £5.70

2. Taxi - £3.90

3. Hairdresser - £5.00

4. Café - £3.90

5. Hotel maid - £6.70

6. Food delivery driver - £4.80

7. Barber - £4.50

8. Bar/pub - £4.60

9. Hotel concierge or porter - £5.90

10. Tour guide - £6.20

11. Cleaner - £7.00

12. Beauty salon - £5.70

13. Babysitters - £8.30

14. Removal van driver - £8.30

15. Gardener - £7.10

16. Spa or massage therapist - £6.80

17. Furniture delivery driver - £7.40

18. Dog groomer - £6.80

19. Dog walker - £6.30

20. Personal trainer - £7.70