Short answer: create a tip page in an app such as TipIns, print the QR code and put it on the front of the booth or the laptop stand, lit so it scans in the dark. Customers scan it with their phone camera and tip by card, Apple Pay or Google Pay. They do not need an app or an account.
Requests come to the booth as shouted song titles from people holding a drink and a phone, and no cash. There is no polite way to ask, and no time to give out a payment handle in the middle of a mix.
How a QR code tip jar works
You create a tip page once and get a personal QR code and link. A customer points their phone camera at the code, a secure payment page opens in their browser, and they pay with Apple Pay, Google Pay or a card. The tip shows in your balance straight away and is paid out to your bank account.
Where DJs put the code
- On the front of the booth or the laptop stand, lit so it scans in the dark.
- On the screen behind you between tracks.
- On the karaoke songbook or sign-up sheet.
- On table cards at weddings, if the couple agree.
Size the code for the distance: a phone reads one from about ten times its width. The measurements are in how to make a tip jar QR code sign.
What to write on the sign
Requests and tips: scan here. Put your song in the note.
Put your own name where the brackets are. You can export a print-ready design from the app in business card, A5, A4 or A3 size.
How to mention it
On the microphone, once an hour: "Requests are open. Scan the code on the booth and put your song in the note."
Your own code or a shared one
A personal code. A DJ working with a host or lighting tech can use a small group. Codes shown on a screen in a dark room need high contrast and enough size: see how to make a tip jar QR code sign.
What customers usually tip a DJ
For a wedding or private event DJ in the US, 10 to 15% of the fee or $50 to $150 is typical. For a request at a bar or club, $5 to $20.
| Situation | Usual tip |
|---|---|
| Wedding DJ | $50 to $150, or 10 to 15% |
| Song request at a bar | $5 to $20 |
| Karaoke host | $1 to $5 per song, or more to move up the list |
Customers looking for the etiquette can read how to tip a DJ without cash.
What it costs
TipIns is free to download and has no monthly fee. Each tip carries a 10% platform fee plus a small card processing fee, and by default the person tipping covers both, so you receive the amount they chose. Weekly payouts to your bank are free. The details are in the FAQ.
Common questions
Where should a DJ put a tip QR code?
On the front of the booth or the laptop stand, lit so it scans in the dark. On the screen behind you between tracks.
What should a DJ's tip sign say?
Try: "Requests and tips: scan here. Put your song in the note." Give a reason, show a large code and include your name.
Should I use a personal code or a team code?
A personal code. A DJ working with a host or lighting tech can use a small group. Codes shown on a screen in a dark room need high contrast and enough size: see how to make a tip jar QR code sign.