First, read my Ask the Org thoughts on tipping dealers, floor staff, and cashiers. After that, you will understand I believe tipping is important enough that you should almost always do it. There is one counterargument, however.
If you’re a pro, particularly if you’re in the $2/5 (or, heaven forbid, the $1/3) streets, over-tipping can put a big dent in your food and rent money. I’m certainly not expecting anybody to do that. Or maybe you’re just getting by in the real world, and this $400 is your monthly poker budget. I totally get that you can’t just spread red chips all over the poker room.
Do what is right for you, whatever squares your conscience and your pocketbook. If and when you end up with a larger slice of the pie, I hope you’ll share.
In fact, if you can’t afford to tip the dealer when you’ve won that pot, and I’m at your table, it’s all good. I already got my big ol’ piece of pie – I got you for this one.
