The Christmas season is here. With it, we think of the season of giving. But how much is enough or appropriate? Who should I tip? Are there clear-cut rules? The answer is this: there is no clean-cut, one-size-fits-all rule. Do what you think is best.
Government Workers
Although federal regulations state that one may Not tip a mail carrier with cash or check, other gifts are appropriate. One can give a mug, or mittens. They can accept a gift under $20. Gift cards are also appreciated.
Delivery Drivers
FedEx drivers are not supposed to accept cash. However, they can accept gifts up to $75. UPS does not have a gift-giving policy.
Many of the rules are for the protection of the drivers. The company does not want them robbed because they are carrying large sums of cash.
Teachers And Coaches
These persons do not take cash. They do take small gifts. This can be a third-grade teacher or a gymnastics coach. If you value them, say so with a gift.
Waste Haulers
Some places recommend tipping your trash men $10-$30. However, my trash haulers are grateful for whatever I give them.
Employment
How about nursing homes or your place of employment? Unless a person stands out, a group gift is proper. Take a fruit basket or a box of chocolates for everyone to share. It tells them they are all valuable.
Tips
The gifts or tips do not need to be large. A gift card for a meal out or even a plate of homemade cookies can put a smile on the receiver’s face. If you are on a budget (who is not!), you do not need to make a large gift. Think of it this way. You give a gift to a waste hauler of $3. If only fifty more people did the same thing, that driver now has $150! That goes a long way.
Nonetheless, the decision to tip is yours. There is no mandatory gift rule. If you can afford it and want to give, do so. Otherwise, do not feel bad. You do what you can. Remember, you can tip any time of the year. One year, I gave our delivery man a gift in July, telling him that I appreciate him all year, not just in December.
