Hi Jennifer,
Thanks for visiting the Disney Parks Moms Panel with your question. I'm happy to see you are considering using the
Disney Dining Plan for your upcoming visit to Walt Disney World Resort, it is a great way to experience some of the fabulous dining locations at Walt Disney World Resort.
Gratuity is not included as a part of the Disney Dining Plan. At the end of your dining experience, your server will bring your cheque and at the bottom there will be a place to add your gratuity. There is also a suggested amount, usually 18 % and 20% already calculated for you, to make it even easier. Please remember that those are suggested amounts, you are free to leave whatever percentage you feel appropriate in terms of the Cast Member's service throughout the meal. From there, you will be able to use cash, a credit card, Disney Gift Cards or your MagicBand (if set up for room charges) to settle the charge. Simply add your method of payment and the Cast Member will take care of it for you.
If you have booked Dinner Shows or dining such as
Hoop-Dee-Doo Musical Revue,
Mickey's Backyard BBQ,
Disney's Spirit of Aloha Dinner Show or Cinderella's Royal Table, gratuity is included. Also if your party is 6 or more people, gratuity will be automatically added to your cheque.
I hope that helps, Jennifer. Please let us know if you have any other questions. We are always happy to help.
Stephanie