Hi Laura,
Upon check-in at your Disney Resort Hotel, a Cast Member will allow you to place a major credit card or debit card on your Key to the World Card, specifically for charging privileges. Souvenirs, snacks and gratuities can all be charged back to the room. I happen to love this amenity, as I will then only need to carry a few dollars cash, my driver's license and my Key to the World Card throughout our vacation.
We've never encountered a problem charging gratuities back to our Key to the World Card, as the server will ask you before the meal if you're participating in the Disney Dining Plan. If they do not, just be sure to remind them. When the bill arrives, you'll be provided a notification of remaining table service entitlements and the cost of the meal had you paid out of pocket. You can simply calculate the appropriate tip based on the cost of the meal, and place your room key in the billfold as you would a credit card or cash. Keep in mind 18% gratuity will automatically be added for parties of 6 or more guests and at a few select dining locations, as noted on the
Disney Dining Plan brochure.
Thanks for your great question, Laura, and feel free to visit us again for assistance with planning your Walt Disney World vacation.
Sherri