I agree the server should always assume you DO want your change, but on the other hand, a lot of servers (like me) make change out of their apron, and it takes quite a bit more time than just grabbing it out of a register. When you are busy, taking time to make unnecessary change takes time away from other customers. Also, as far as the automatic gratuity, most places will take it off if you don't think you got good service. I hate putting the gratuity on, but when I have a big group, I pass on other tables so that I can dedicate myself to making sure my group is happy, so if it happens to be a group who doesn't believe in tipping, my night is shot. Oh, and I don't believe in that no splitting the check nonsense. My restaurant has a banquet room, and I split the check 15 ways for a group of forty one time. What's the difference?? Sure it's a pain, but that's my job.