Holiday Tipping Guide

The Ultimate Holiday Tipping Guide

The festive season is not just a time for giving gifts to family and friends but also an opportunity to show appreciation to the individuals who offer services to you throughout the year. Tipping can sometimes be confusing, and you might often find yourself wondering whom to tip and how much. Fret not! We have you covered with our comprehensive holiday tipping guide.

1. Home Services

  • Housekeeper/Cleaner: If you have a regular cleaner, consider tipping them the cost of one full cleaning.
  • Landscaper/Gardener: Offer a tip equivalent to one week’s service.
  • Trash/Recycling collectors: A small cash gift of $10-$30 can be a good token of appreciation.

2. Personal Care

  • Hair Stylist/Barber: The cost of one session or a generous percentage of your usual bill.
  • Manicurist: Tip equivalent to one visit.
  • Massage Therapist: If you see them regularly, consider tipping the cost of one session.

3. Childcare

  • Babysitter: Offer a tip equivalent to one evening’s pay, plus a small gift from your child.
  • Daycare Providers: A cash gift of $25-$70 for each staff member who works with your child.
  • Teachers: While not required, a thoughtful gift from your child can be a great gesture.

4. Pet Care

  • Dog Walker: Up to one week’s pay.
  • Groomer: Half to one full session’s cost.
  • Pet Sitter: Consider a tip that reflects the length of your trip – potentially anywhere from half to the full cost of one session.

5. Building Staff

  • Doorman: Depending on building rules, consider $25-$100 for each doorman.
  • Maintenance Staff: $20-$30 is a reasonable amount.
  • Superintendent: If they provide regular assistance, a tip ranging from $50-$200 can be appropriate.

6. Delivery Services

  • Mail Carrier: According to federal regulations, mail carriers aren’t allowed to accept cash tips or gifts worth over $20. Opt for a thoughtful gift under this value.
  • Package Delivery (like UPS, FedEx): Typically, company policies discourage tipping. However, if you have regular deliveries or a particularly friendly delivery person, a small gift or gift card can be a nice gesture.

7. Healthcare Providers

  • Personal Trainer: Consider tipping the cost of one session.
  • Home Healthcare Workers: A week’s pay is a kind gesture, but check with the agency for their gifting policy first.
  • Regular Therapists: Professionals like psychotherapists often don’t expect tips. A card expressing gratitude can be more appropriate.

8. Miscellaneous Services

  • Newspaper Delivery: $10-$30 during the holiday season can be a kind gesture.
  • Parking Attendants: If you have a regular parking spot, consider a cash gift of $10-$50.

complete your holiday to do list:

Holiday tipping is all about expressing gratitude. While cash is often appreciated, remember that a heartfelt note of thanks can be equally valuable. And if your budget is tight this year, a genuine verbal thank you, a card, or even homemade baked goods can convey your appreciation. It’s the thought and recognition that truly counts.

Lastly, if you find the holiday rush a bit too much, remember that Simplified is here to help. From holiday shopping to wrapping services, we’re here to ensure your festive season is stress-free and joyful. Happy Holidays! 🎄🎁