Do you tip for a medical massage covered by insurance?

Asked by: Ricky Nolan  |  Last update: November 19, 2025
Score: 4.8/5 (36 votes)

Given the immense benefits of massage therapy, it is crucial to acknowledge and appreciate the skill and effort that therapists put into their work. One way to do this is by tipping appropriately, even when you have insurance coverage.

Do you tip for a massage covered by insurance?

yes. even if its a massage covered by your insurance, if you enjoyed your massage then you should tip.

Does insurance cover medical massage?

Massage therapy may be covered under insurance if it is deemed medically necessary by a healthcare provider. To improve the chances of coverage, obtain a referral or prescription from your doctor specifying the medical condition being treated.

How much do you tip for a $150 massage?

What Percent Should You Tip? According to experts we spoke to, you should tip between 15% and 20%. 20% is a generous amount, but it is also much easier math which is why most people choose to go this route when tipping. For a 20% tip, all you need to do is figure out what 10% of the massage cost is and double it.

Is it rude not to tip a massage therapist?

It is generally considered rude not to tip a massage therapist. Tipping is a customary way to show appreciation for their skill and service. A standard practice is to tip 15-20% of the total cost of the massage, but it can vary based on your satisfaction and the therapist's performance.

Massage Covered By Insurance

26 related questions found

Is $20 a good tip for a 90 minute massage?

Many people tip around 15-20% of the massage cost.

For example, if your massage costs $100, you'd tip $15 to $20. This range is a good starting point and is commonly accepted across different settings: at-home or mobile therapists, franchise spas or clinics, or an individual massage therapist.

Do you tip a massage therapist at a doctor's office?

For these, she wouldn't expect a tip. "I kind of look at it as: You wouldn't tip your doctor," she says. Tipping isn't the norm for massages at chiropractic clinics, physical therapy offices or wellness centers, she says.

Should you tip a massage therapist at physical therapy?

It is commonplace for people to tip LMTs whether or not they are patients with insurance coverage. In general, some patients tip while others don't, and there is no expectation either way.

Is $5 a good tip for a pedicure?

Basic manicure/pedicure:

The cost of a manicure or pedicure in the U.S. can range from $20 to $50, with the national average being $45. The typical tipping amount for a basic manicure or pedicure service is 17-18%. Of course, you are welcome to tip more, but the minimum recommended tip is at least $5.

What is proper etiquette when getting a massage?

10 tips to get the most from your massage
  1. Be as receptive and open to the massage process as possible.
  2. Don't eat just before a massage session. ...
  3. Be on time. ...
  4. Take off only as much clothing as you are comfortable removing. ...
  5. Communicate with your massage therapist. ...
  6. Remember to breathe normally.

What is the insurance code for medical massage?

Use these codes to explain the treatment you provide when you bill insurance for your services. The most common 3 codes are: 97010 Hot/Cold Packs, 97124 Massage Therapy, and 97140 Manual Therapy.

Does Blue Cross Blue Shield Federal cover massage therapy?

Blue Cross and Blue Shield offers alternative medicine for federal employees. Effective Jan. 1, 2001 Blue Cross and Blue Shield Service Benefit Plan members will have access to a national network of chiropractors, acupuncturists, massage therapists, and health and wellness products at discounted prices.

Are medical massages deductible?

Massages may be tax deductible if prescribed as a treatment for musculoskeletal disorders such as tendonitis, arthritis, carpal tunnel syndrome, or fibromyalgia. If a licensed medical practitioner prescribes massage therapy to address musculoskeletal issues, it can be tax-deductible as a medical expense.

How to get massage covered by health insurance?

How to get medical insurance to cover massage therapy
  1. Call to verify your insurance coverage for massage therapy. ...
  2. Get a prescription by clearly communicating to your doctor that you'd like massage therapy. ...
  3. Ask your doctor to prescribe massage for the most general diagnosis possible.

How much does a medical massage cost?

Medical massage therapy (also called myotherapy) costs about $100-150 per hour on average in the United States.

How do I know if my insurance covers massage?

The easiest way to find healthcare that your insurance covers is to check your insurance network and see which massage therapists are available near you. You can also call individual providers to ask whether they accept your coverage and whether a doctor's referral is required.

Is it rude to not tip for a pedicure?

Regardless of whether you're getting a basic pedicure or you upgrade to the full-on spa treatment, you should still be tipping your nail technician. Even if you're just getting your polish done, remember that you're only paying for the product and service but the nail artist's time and performance.

How much should I tip for $70 nails?

Generally, 15-20% of the total cost is considered standard for tipping in this industry.

What is a good tip for $50 nails?

If the total for your manicure was $50, tipping $10 is a good tip since it's 20% of the total. So, a $50 manicure would be $60, including the tip.

Do you tip on insurance massage?

Tipping Etiquette for Medical Massages

The short answer is: it's not expected, but it's always appreciated. Here's why: Professional Setting: In a medical setting, massage therapists are viewed more like healthcare providers.

Is it OK to not tip for massage?

Since tips are standard protocol for a private masseuse, you should assume a 20 percent tip in any massage or spa treatment situation (unless a self-employed therapist specifically tells you their rate is all-inclusive). Not sure? When in doubt, always ask, says Post, who says tipping is always appreciated.

What is the difference between Swedish and deep tissue massage?

Stroke Style: Swedish massage focuses on longer, more fluid strokes. The deep tissue massage technique uses more pinpointed and broad strokes. Areas of Focus: The relaxing Swedish massage is usually a full body experience. Deep tissue massage typically focuses on problem areas.

Do you tip for medical spa services?

If you patron your local medical spa for a service that is traditionally performed at a day spa or salon, tipping the standard 10-20% may be appropriate.

Where to leave a tip after a massage therapist?

The most traditional way to tip is in person, either directly to your therapist in cash or added to your credit card charge at the front desk - this is the easiest method and allows you to thank your therapist personally for their service.

How much is a 90 minute massage?

Here is a summary of the average cost of massage therapy based on the duration of the session: 30 minutes: $30 to $65. 60 minutes: $50 to $130. 90 minutes: $90 to $175.