When managing cash and credit transactions, what is the first step?

The first step in managing cash and credit transactions is to verify the amounts. This is crucial because accurate verification ensures that the total amount presented to the guest reflects their charges correctly. It helps to prevent discrepancies that could lead to confusion or disputes later. By confirming the amounts before proceeding, you minimize the chance of errors, which is essential for maintaining trust and ensuring a smooth transaction process.

Providing the guest with a receipt comes later in the process after amounts have been verified. Processing payments without checking can lead to mistakes and potential financial loss for both the restaurant and the guest. Asking the guest about their payment preference is important but is typically done after verifying the amounts to ensure that you are accurately processing their preferred payment method. Thus, verifying amounts is the foundational step that sets the stage for a successful and accurate transaction.