Hi Tammie!
Welcome to planDisney.
Thank you for sending us this question as I know that tipping can be so confusing. (
Please note this is all my own opinion, as tipping is discretionary.)
When dining at table-service restaurants, a suggested gratuity will be shown on your bill. It is suggested, and it is up to you to decide how much you want to pay. If you settle your bill using your
Disney dining plan, MagicBand, or credit card, you can pay your gratuity using another method of payment - you can use your
Disney Gift Card, or cash or charge it to your room. Again, it's totally up to you to decide which way suits you best. If you order additional menu items or drinks that are not included with your dining plan you can also pay for them using your Disney Gift Card (or any other form of payment, the same as with gratuities).
If you receive particularly good service from our dedicated Cast Members, especially when tipping is not appropriate, you can leave a "Cast Compliment" on the My Disney Experience app. Try to take note of their name and hometown, as shown on their nametag, which will ensure your compliment reaches them. I know they will appreciate this!
You can use your Disney dining plan any way you please from check-in to midnight on the day you leave (subject to meals and snacks remaining on your balance). Once you have checked out of your room you still have full use of all the hotel's facilities, including restaurants.
Please come back and visit us if you have any further questions, and you can
send me a direct question if you wish. We will be happy to help you plan your magical vacation at Walt Disney World!
Sue