Tips present ethical issues because they may create a conflict of interest; they should generally be declined.

• A. They should be accepted if offered by a client
• B. They may create a conflict of interest and should generally be declined.
• C. They have no impact on duties
• D. They are required by policy

Answer: (B)

Tips can create a conflict of interest by introducing a personal incentive that may influence your judgments or actions. Because you’re responsible for safety, fairness, and following policy, accepting tips can bias how you handle situations, report outcomes, or grant access. To maintain trust, consistency, and compliance, these offers are generally declined.

Accepting tips from a client might seem polite, but it still creates bias and is usually against policy. Saying tips have no impact overlooks how financial or personal incentives can alter behavior. Saying tips are required by policy is incorrect, since policies typically prohibit accepting tips or gifts to prevent improper influence.