Former President Donald Trump made a significant promise during a rally in Las Vegas, Nevada, declaring that his administration, if elected, would eliminate taxes on tips for workers in the hospitality industry. This announcement was met with enthusiasm by the crowd, particularly those who rely on tips as a substantial part of their income.
Trump addressed the audience with a confident tone, saying, “So, this is the first time I’ve said this. And, for those hotel workers and people that get tips, you’re going to be very happy. Because when I get to office, we are going to not charge taxes on tips — people making tips.”
According to the Internal Revenue Service (IRS), tips are defined as “discretionary (optional or extra) payments determined by a customer that employees receive from customers.” This includes cash tips, tips left via credit or debit cards, and tips shared among employees through tip pools or splitting arrangements.
🚨New: President Trump has announced he will ask Congress to eliminate all taxes on TIPS for restaurant workers and hospitality workers.
Trump said, “When I get into office, we're not going to charge taxes on tips-people making tips.”
pic.twitter.com/GNMw1U1Mio— The Calvin Coolidge Project (@TheCalvinCooli1) June 9, 2024
The IRS currently mandates that “all cash and non-cash tips” received by employees are considered income and are subject to federal income taxes. This means that employees must report their tips to their employer, and these tips are then subject to social security and Medicare taxes, provided the total tips exceed $20 in a calendar month from a single employer.
In his speech, Trump highlighted the burden these taxes place on workers in the service industry, stating, “We’re not going to do it. And, we’re going to do that right away, first thing in office. Because it’s been a point of contention for years and years and years, and you do a great job of service, you take care of people.”
Trump’s proposal aims to ease the financial pressure on workers who depend heavily on tips, ensuring they can keep more of their hard-earned money. He emphasized that his administration would not pursue taxes on tips, adding, “We’re not going to be going after the taxes of the people who have jobs in restaurants where they receive tips.”
This policy proposal resonates with many in the hospitality industry, who often see a substantial portion of their earnings taken away through taxation. By eliminating taxes on tips, Trump aims to provide financial relief and support to these workers, acknowledging the critical role they play in the service sector.
If implemented, this move could have far-reaching implications for the hospitality industry, potentially increasing the take-home pay for millions of workers. However, it also raises questions about the impact on federal revenue and how such a policy would be balanced within the broader tax system.
Trump’s promise to eliminate taxes on tips is a bold step aimed at gaining support from service industry workers. As the election approaches, this proposal could become a significant talking point, highlighting his commitment to addressing the concerns of everyday Americans working in hotels, restaurants, and other tipped professions.