Holiday Tipping: Recommendations from A-Z

When deciding who you will tip, take into consideration the frequency of your visit, the personal attention you receive, and most importantly, your budget
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A holiday tip is a perfect way to show your appreciation to those who provide you with helpful service throughout the year. When deciding who you will tip, take into consideration the frequency of your visit, the personal attention you receive, and most importantly, your budget. The following is only a guideline for your consideration. Most thoughtfully, all holiday tips or gifts should be accompanied by a handwritten "Happy Holidays" note.

Apartment Doorman - A cash gift of $20 (some receive $100 upwards), depending on service provided throughout the year.

Babysitter - A cash gift equivalent to one night's pay or a gift card.

Boss - It's not necessary to give your boss a large or expensive gift. Consider an office gift "pool" or bring a tray of holiday goodies for the office.

Building Handyman - A cash gift of $20 to $50 if you see them on a regular basis.

Children's Teacher - Contribute to a "class gift," or give your child's teacher and teacher's aide a small gift.

Dog Walker - A cash gift equivalent of one day to one week's service.

FedEx - Does not restrict gifts or tips, but amount should not exceed $75. When in doubt, double check policy.

Garage Attendant (Building or Apartment) - Cash or gift of $10 to $50, depending on the city and frequency of assistance.

Hair Stylist, Manicurist, Personal Trainer, and Massage Therapist - A cash gift equivalent to one visit, or a gift.

Housekeeper - Once a week, a cash gift equivalent to one day's pay; weekly, a cash gift equivalent to one week's pay.

Landlord or Building Manger - A cash gift or gift card of $50 upwards, depending on their level of annual support.

Nanny - One week's pay and a handmade gift from your child.

Newspaper Delivery - A cash gift of $10 to $30.

Office Assistant - A "bonus," gift card or small gift.

Pet Groomer - A cash gift equivalent to one service and a basket of "people treats" from your pet.

Pool Cleaner & Lawn Maintenance - A cash gift equivalent to one week's service.

Private Health Care Nurse - A cash gift equivalent to one week's pay, or a gift certificate.

Sanitation Worker - Check local regulations for public service employees. If no restrictions, $10 to $25 per person. If you miss them during the day, make arrangements to drop off the gift at their corporate office.

School Lunch Attendant - A lunch attendant who is vigilant when it comes to your child's food allergy is worth their weight in gold. Check the food service gift policy and give according to their guidelines. A gift card or small cash gift of $20 dollars per attendant is appreciated.

School Secretary - A small gift or gift certificate.

Shampoo Attendant - A small gift or gift card of $5 to $10.

UPS - Prefers drivers be given a token gift rather than cash, but leave it up to the customer's discretion.

US Postal Service -- Government regulations do not allow USPS mail carriers to accept cash gifts of any kind. A small, non-monetary gift, valued less than $20 is accepted.

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