Short answer: create a tip page in an app such as TipIns, print the QR code and put it on an upright sign beside the hat or case, at knee to waist height. 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.
The "hat line" at the end of a show is your whole payday, and half the crowd now answers it by patting empty pockets. You have about ninety seconds before they walk away.
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 street performers put the code
- On an upright sign beside the hat or case, at knee to waist height.
- On a board you hold up during the hat line.
- On your backdrop or banner, large enough to scan from the back row.
- On cards handed out by a helper as the crowd breaks.
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
Enjoyed the show? No cash, no problem. Scan to tip.
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
Make it part of the hat line: "If this was worth a coffee to you and you have no cash, the code is on the sign. It takes ten seconds."
Your own code or a shared one
A personal code, or a group for a double act. For sign sizes, pitch advice and permits, see the busking guide and busking rules by city.
What customers usually tip a street performer
For an act you walk past and enjoy, $1 to $5 is typical. If you stay for a full circle show, $5 to $20 per person is fair.
| Situation | Usual tip |
|---|---|
| Stopped for a song | $1 to $5 |
| Watched a full circle show | $5 to $20 per person |
| Took a photo with a living statue or character | $2 to $5 |
| Family of four at a full show | $20 |
Customers looking for the etiquette can read how to tip a street performer 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 street performer put a tip QR code?
On an upright sign beside the hat or case, at knee to waist height. On a board you hold up during the hat line.
What should a street performer's tip sign say?
Try: "Enjoyed the show? No cash, no problem. Scan to tip." Give a reason, show a large code and include your name.
Should I use a personal code or a team code?
A personal code, or a group for a double act. For sign sizes, pitch advice and permits, see the busking guide and busking rules by city.