From your hairstylist to your mail carrier, it’s important to show appreciation during the holiday season. Here’s a guide on who to tip, suggested amounts, and how to express your gratitude effectively.

This time of year is about thankfulness, especially for those who provide essential services throughout the year. Adding tips to your holiday budget is crucial, and this year, many of these service providers may be facing financial challenges.

Determining the right amount to tip can be a daunting task, says etiquette specialist Thomas P. Farley. In 2019, the average cash tip was $45, with housekeepers receiving the highest median at $60 and trash collectors at around $20, according to a survey by Consumer Reports.

Farley suggests keeping a list or a spreadsheet of the service professionals you interact with throughout the year. “With holiday stress, it's easy to forget someone important,” he explains. Maintaining a holiday tipping log each year can help you remember who to thank.

Assigning Value to Gratitude

Tips should mirror the relationship you have and the value you place on their service, advises etiquette expert Diane Gottsman, founder of The Protocol School of Texas. 

While your relationship with your hairstylist may be invaluable, you still need to determine an appropriate cash amount before heading to the ATM.

Your location, service costs, and personal budget will influence the tip amount. Below are some holiday tipping recommendations to consider.

Barista or Bartender

If you have a favorite barista or bartender who remembers your preferences, show them your appreciation. 

Holiday Tipping Guideline: A tip of $20 is suggested for those who consistently provide excellent service, according to Gottsman. Consider enclosing it in a handwritten note.

Hair Stylist

During your holiday appointment, present your stylist with a card and cash gratuity for their hard work in keeping your hair beautiful.

Holiday Tipping Guideline: Offer the cash equivalent of one visit. For example, if your appointment costs $80, include that amount in cash in the card. Feel free to give more if your stylist has performed wonders with your hair this year.

Manicurist

A cash tip along with a note is a considerate gesture for your regular manicurist. If you don’t have a consistent technician, an extra tip isn’t necessary.

Holiday Tipping Guideline: Tip the equivalent of one appointment's cost.

Housekeeper

Your housekeeper deserves recognition for keeping your space tidy. A heartfelt note of thanks is a great addition to your cash tip.

Holiday Tipping Guideline: Tip the equivalent of one visit or a week’s service, as recommended by Farley.

Landscaper/Gardener/Pool Cleaner

Remember to tip your landscapers and other service professionals who maintain your yard, including seasonal helpers like pool cleaners.

Holiday Tipping Guideline: Offer the cost of one visit, whether paid weekly or monthly.

Doorman

Tipping varies based on multiple factors, including your location and how frequently you tip throughout the year. If you’ve tipped your doorman regularly, your year-end tip can be smaller. If you haven’t tipped at all this year, be more generous in December, suggests Farley.

Holiday Tipping Guideline: Consider tipping doormen $20 to $100, or more if they have provided exceptional service throughout the year.

Nanny or Child Care Provider

Involve your child in selecting a small gift or writing a note to accompany your cash tip, as Farley recommends.

Holiday Tipping Guideline: The cash tip should equal one to two weeks’ pay. For regular babysitters, the equivalent of one session is sufficient. No extra tip is needed for occasional sitters.

Sanitation Worker

Check local regulations regarding tipping for public service employees. If there are no restrictions and you regularly see your trash collector, it’s acceptable to give a cash tip.

Holiday Tipping Guideline: A cash gift of $10 to $25 per person is appropriate. Ensure you hand it to them directly or deliver it to their service office.

Mail and Package Deliverer

It's essential to be aware of the rules regarding what mail carriers can accept. Visit the delivery provider’s website for specifics.

Holiday Tipping Guideline: USPS employees can receive a gift worth up to $20 but not cash. UPS drivers may accept a small gift, while FedEx employees can accept a gift valued at up to $75, but no cash or gift cards.

What If You Can’t Afford to Tip?

Tipping is a personal choice, so don’t feel guilty if your budget is tight. If cash isn’t feasible, consider baking cookies and writing a thoughtful note, suggests Farley. Acknowledging their contributions through any gesture is what truly matters.