I usually don't carry cash. Used to only carry cash, but now it's not necessary. The only place I tip in cash is my Barber who I've been going to regularly since about 1989. I'm on my 2nd one in the same shop as the 1st 1 retired. With the exception of my 4 years in high school I went to the same shop, only the #1 that retired's Dad cut my hair as a kid.
Cut- $12
Tip- $5
Had something happen the other day that never had happen or heard of before. Took the wife's car to get her oil changed and tires rotated at a BIG dealership here in the Cincy area (McCluskey Chevrolet) that we've been going to for years depending on what we need done. I have 2 friends that work there. Regular oil changes and tire rotations there. When I went to pay the lady said there is a place on there for gratuity. I said, "SERIOUSLY??? Since when???", she responded "Just in the past few months". My response was "maybe you should pay your employees & technicians more, no thanks". I will say this, they're a BIG place with more than 1 dealership in the area and offer amenities like snacks, water or beverages which I don't partake because I'm there to get in and out. Until they start serving me alcohol, real food and entertainment, there will be no tip from me for an oil change and tire rotation.