For non-US HN readers:

In the US, the IRS assumes you make a certain amount in tips if you work in a job that customarily allows tipping.

So when a customer doesn't tip, the waiter still has to pay taxes on the money you didn't give them.

But wait, it gets worse (this being the US):

Some states allow paying waiters less than minimum wage if tipping is customary. As low as $2/hour.

So a waiter could actually end up owing more money in taxes than what they made that day. All this, and no health or dental insurance, or pension.

I could go on, but you get the idea.

Actually, I will go on. Since most states are at-will, you can be fired for any or no reason at any time.

But just as common, the restaurant manager will threaten you with reduced hours if you call in sick, or get a customer complaint (ie. "My spaghetti wasn't al dente. What's wrong with that waiter today.") Or if you don't do the manager "favors" (see the Chipotle scandal.)

BTW, a couple days ago I was wondering how esperate people would make a living during the extended lockdown. Then I saw the HN submission for OnlyFans ...

Welcome to the USA!

Hold up, if a waiter makes less than minimum wage after tips, the company has to make up the difference. This is a federal labour law, and if treated otherwise, is completely illegal.

Does your average waiter have the time and energy to devote to suing the local restaurant when it doesn't pay? Most of the time, and as they should, they just go find another job. I would hate to become known as the employee who sues my employer if they don't pay me.

Is that really your defense for posting 100% false information? Seriously? Owing more money to the irs than you make, because they "assume" you made minimum wage? You're a dumbass, straight up.

This is completely crazy. Its just one of these absurd Americanisms that we should take a look at during COVID and not continue.

To be honest this is how it should be. I am customer of the restaurant and waiter is employee of same restaurant. I am not paying tip to clerk in bank, nor to the hairdressers, etc. In Japan tip is not only discouraged but waiters wouldn't even accept one. Why they can do it and we don't?