Tipping or giving a gratuity during the holiday season is common. And although there are no set rules on how to tip, a gratuity is appropriate for anyone who provides a regular service. But you want to keep the holiday budget, so plan on who and how much to tip.
Holiday Tipping Budget Considerations
Remember, a tip is a gratuity. Which means you appreciate the service you’ve been provided throughout the year and want to reward that effort. It is not, however, a requirement.What Time to Tip
Anytime between the beginning of December and New Year’s Day is the appropriate time to tip. But the recipient might be appreciative if you tip before the big day so they can use any money for holiday shopping.Determining Who Is Tipped
Do you usually tip at the time of service? Then a holiday tip may be optional. Instead of a monetary tip, you may want to give a small gift like a travel mug or gift card.You also want to look at the quality and frequency of the service you receive. This includes how long you have used the service. What is your relationship with the service provider? Your tip may differ between, say, your grandson’s teacher and a personal caregiver.
Local customs may also dictate what type of tip you give. For example, if you live in a large city, that may determine the tip amount. If you need more clarification, call the service provider’s company and learn what is appropriate. Some companies have strict rules about their employees receiving tips.
If you don’t want to tip, don’t worry about future services. If this is an issue, changing providers is always an option.
Young Child’s Teacher
Your child’s teacher works hard all year, so a holiday gift is a nice touch. But don’t give cash. Cash can be construed as a bribe. Instead, give a small gift. It should be worth no more than $25. A $25 gift card to Starbucks, for example, will be appreciated if the teacher is a coffee drinker.Tipping the Delivery Person
Delivery people are there, rain or shine. So, presenting a token of appreciation is appropriate. But federal employees, like postal workers, aren’t allowed to accept money. Instead, you can give food that’s not part of a meal. A small gift of no real intrinsic value is also allowed. But you'll need to keep it under $20.FedEx employees may not receive cash or gift cards. But they can receive a gift, usually up to $75.
The UPS delivery driver is allowed to accept small gratuities or gifts.
Babysitter or Day Care Provider?
A babysitter comes into your home and cares for your children. This makes it personal. You’ll probably want to tip them. One evening’s pay is acceptable. You also should give your babysitter a small gift from the children.Home Health Providers or Personal Caregivers?
If you have a nurse stopping in to care for you or a loved one, you might want to give them a gratuity. But money is not appropriate. They may even feel insulted. Instead, a small gift or bouquet of flowers with a handwritten note will be well liked. Check the company policy.Housekeeper, Handy Man, or Newspaper Carrier?
A housekeeper will appreciate anywhere from a day to a week’s salary as a holiday tip. Of course, a nice gift will also do the trick.Business Assistant Holiday Gift
Your assistant will appreciate a $50-plus gift card. Or, if you wish, a gift equal to that amount will be appropriate. Keep the gift generic—nothing personal. Remember to write a thank you note for all the yearlong hard work.Tipping the Building Superintendent
If you live in an apartment, don’t forget the superintendent. They’ve kept that faucet from dripping and the heat on all year. Depending on how often you’ve used them, anywhere from $20 to $100 is appropriate.Who Not to Tip
Don’t give a monetary tip to your lawyer or financial advisor. If you appreciate their work, send them a holiday note. You also don’t tip a doctor or therapist. Cash gifts are prohibited. A platter of cookies would be better to benefit the entire staff.Tipping Is Not Mandatory
You may have other people you want to tip. But it’s not mandatory. If you can’t afford to give a monetary gift, a tin of cookies with a note will do.Just sending a note shows that you appreciate everything done throughout the year.
