Intro
The world of restaurants is a complex and multifaceted industry, with many moving parts that need to be managed and coordinated in order to provide excellent customer service and maintain a profitable business. One key aspect of restaurant management is the tip out system, which is used to distribute tips and gratuities among staff members. In this article, we will explore the importance of tip out sheets, how they work, and provide a template for creating your own restaurant tip out sheet.
A tip out sheet is a document used to track and record the tips and gratuities received by a restaurant during a shift or a period of time. It is typically used to distribute tips among staff members, including servers, bartenders, bussers, and other support staff. The tip out sheet is an essential tool for restaurant managers, as it helps to ensure that tips are distributed fairly and that staff members are compensated for their hard work.
Using a tip out sheet can help to improve staff morale and motivation, as it provides a clear and transparent way of distributing tips. It can also help to reduce conflicts and disputes among staff members, as everyone knows how much they will receive in tips and when they will receive it. Additionally, a tip out sheet can help to simplify the process of tracking and reporting tips, making it easier for restaurants to comply with tax laws and regulations.
Benefits of Using a Tip Out Sheet

There are many benefits to using a tip out sheet in your restaurant. Some of the most significant advantages include:
- Improved staff morale and motivation
- Reduced conflicts and disputes among staff members
- Simplified tracking and reporting of tips
- Increased transparency and fairness in tip distribution
- Improved compliance with tax laws and regulations
How to Create a Tip Out Sheet

Creating a tip out sheet is a relatively simple process. Here are the steps to follow:
- Determine the tip out period: Decide how often you want to distribute tips, such as daily, weekly, or bi-weekly.
- Identify the staff members: Make a list of all the staff members who will be receiving tips, including servers, bartenders, bussers, and other support staff.
- Calculate the tip out amount: Determine the amount of tips that will be distributed to each staff member, based on their role and the number of hours they worked.
- Create a template: Use a spreadsheet or other software to create a template for your tip out sheet.
- Track and record tips: Use the template to track and record the tips received by your restaurant during the tip out period.
Tip Out Sheet Template
Here is a sample tip out sheet template that you can use in your restaurant:Staff Member | Role | Hours Worked | Tip Out Amount |
---|---|---|---|
John Doe | Server | 8 | $100 |
Jane Smith | Bartender | 6 | $80 |
Bob Johnson | Busser | 4 | $40 |
Best Practices for Using a Tip Out Sheet

Here are some best practices to keep in mind when using a tip out sheet:
- Make sure to track and record tips accurately and consistently
- Use a clear and transparent method of distributing tips
- Communicate the tip out system to all staff members
- Review and adjust the tip out system regularly to ensure it is fair and effective
Tax Implications of Tip Out Sheets

Tip out sheets can have tax implications for restaurants and staff members. Here are some things to keep in mind:
- Tips are considered taxable income for staff members
- Restaurants are required to report tips to the IRS
- Staff members are required to report tips on their tax returns
Common Mistakes to Avoid

Here are some common mistakes to avoid when using a tip out sheet:
- Failing to track and record tips accurately
- Using a tip out system that is not clear or transparent
- Failing to communicate the tip out system to staff members
- Failing to review and adjust the tip out system regularly
Gallery of Tip Out Sheet Templates
Tip Out Sheet Templates










What is a tip out sheet?
+A tip out sheet is a document used to track and record the tips and gratuities received by a restaurant during a shift or a period of time.
How do I create a tip out sheet?
+To create a tip out sheet, determine the tip out period, identify the staff members, calculate the tip out amount, and create a template using a spreadsheet or other software.
What are the benefits of using a tip out sheet?
+The benefits of using a tip out sheet include improved staff morale and motivation, reduced conflicts and disputes among staff members, simplified tracking and reporting of tips, and increased transparency and fairness in tip distribution.
We hope this article has provided you with a comprehensive understanding of tip out sheets and how they can be used to improve your restaurant's operations. By following the tips and best practices outlined in this article, you can create a fair and effective tip out system that benefits both your staff and your business. If you have any questions or comments, please don't hesitate to reach out. Share this article with your friends and colleagues, and let's work together to create a more efficient and profitable restaurant industry.