Govt Weighs Linking Tips To Pension Contribution For Service Staff

The Centre is considering a proposal to allow customers to directly contribute tips to the pension accounts of service staff such as waiters and drivers, sources told NDTV Profit.

The scheme, currently at an ideation stage, aims to integrate informal gratuity into the formal social security system.

As per the early concept, QR codes could be introduced at establishments, giving customers the option to transfer tips directly to the Provident Fund (PF) accounts of individual staff members. This would ensure that tips not only reach the intended recipient but also contribute to their long-term financial security.

The idea aligns with the government’s broader vision of extending social security coverage to informal and service sector workers. If implemented, the scheme could be a first-of-its-kind approach to addressing both transparency and welfare in tipping practices.

However, officials cautioned that the proposal is still in its conceptual phase and may or may not move forward depending on feasibility and stakeholder feedback.

If it materialises, the initiative could significantly improve retirement savings for millions employed in low-wage service roles across the country, while also giving customers greater confidence that their tips are meaningfully contributing to workers' futures.