A service charge is an additional fee added to the cost of a product or service, often to cover the expenses of providing that service. This charge can be seen in various industries, such as restaurants, hotels, and event venues. It is typically calculated as a percentage of the total bill and is meant to compensate staff for their work. In some cases, service charges are automatically included in the final bill, while in others, they may be optional or left to the discretion of the customer. Understanding service charges helps consumers make informed decisions about their spending and the overall cost of services received.