Money Moral Dilemma: Should I accept tips because my colleagues do?

MSE_Kelvin

This week's MoneySaver who wants advice asks...

I recently started as a delivery driver. During training, nothing was said about tips, though on the company intranet it says we're not allowed to accept them. Yet I've seen other drivers accept them and when I've refused to take money from some very insistent customers, they've said my colleagues all accept cash. While I know it's not strictly permitted, I could really use the extra money. 

Unfortunately the MSE team can't always answer money moral dilemma questions as contributions are often emailed in or suggested in person. They are intended to be a point of debate and discussed at face value. 

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SadieO

If it's specifically not allowed then it could be gross misconduct if you do it. "Others do it too!" will be no excuse and no comfort if you are caught and dismissed. 

74jax

MSE_Kelvin said:

I recently started as a delivery driver. During training, nothing was said about tips, though on the company intranet it says we're not allowed to accept them. Yet I've seen other drivers accept them and when I've refused to take money from some very insistent customers, they've said my colleagues all accept cash. While I know it's not strictly permitted, I could really use the extra money. 

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If the question is as per the thread title, then no you should not. 

Brynsam

Accept with good grace. Right now plenty of customers (I'm one of them) are extremely grateful to their delivery drivers and are very happy to show that by means of a modest tip.

Torry_Quine

It's up to you but just because others do doesn't mean you have to . Is it worth risking your job?

Katiehound

Well it's against the rules so maybe you don't want to risk your job
However you could always save the tips and donate them to your favourite charity- and tell customers that is what you are doing.

Romney981

I always tip delivery drivers if they are helpful.  If they are not then I don't.  It is a personal from the customer so I think you should accept them.

ledbyidiots

I am surprised this is a question.  Take the money obviously

StoneleighCat

If it's against company rules, I would be wary about acceptng tips. Is it worth losing your iob over?

kellogs

I have never tipped a delivery driver, nor even considered doing so.  Does that make me a bad person?!

HilJacobi

For god's sake don't touch it! It's a sackable offence to take money from a customer. You could tell them that your job is at risk if you accept cash, but if they really want to thank you then a gift if chocolates or beer/wine, whatever... I just know that 'cash' is a huge no-no, don't risk your job!