El Dorado County (Dec 11 2023) – The festive season is upon us, and along with the shimmering lights and joyous gatherings comes the annual conundrum of holiday tipping. A recent Bankrate study reveals that 44% of Americans plan to tip as generously as last year, with an additional 15% feeling the urge to up the ante. But as the year-end approaches, the question looms: who should you tip, and how much is just right?
1. Adhering to Budget Etiquette:
First things first, let your budget be your guide. The Emily Post Institute’s etiquette experts emphasize the importance of staying within your financial comfort zone. If a generous tip isn’t feasible, consider heartfelt homemade gifts or kind words. Whatever your gesture, accompany it with a short handwritten note.
2. Decoding Tipping Dynamics:
When it comes to tipping, consider your relationship, the duration of service, and the nature of the business. Now, let’s dive into the specifics.
3. Mail Carriers and Delivery Drivers:
Your mail carrier, a steadfast presence all year, deserves recognition. Due to federal regulations, USPS employees can’t accept cash, but a gift worth $20 or less is permissible. Think snacks, beverages, travel mugs, or gift cards under the $20 cap. FedEx and UPS have their own rules—FedEx allows gifts up to $75, while UPS drivers can cautiously accept monetary gratuities or appreciate non-cash gifts like cookies, mittens, and artwork.
Amazon’s delivery drivers, on the other hand, can’t accept cash tips. Express your gratitude through snacks, beverages, or online reviews.
4. Teachers, Coaches, and Sitters:
For the unsung heroes of your child’s life, a small present or gift card is a thoughtful offering. Teachers, coaches, babysitters, and pet sitters all fall into this category. Cash gifts for sitters should cap at one evening or one week’s pay, along with a small gift from the little ones.
5. Snow Plow Drivers in Tahoe:
In snow-laden locales like Tahoe, don’t forget the snowplow drivers who keep the paths clear. A gesture of gratitude here is not only polite but ensures smoother winter days.
6. Other Overlooked Heroes:
Trash or recycling collectors deserve recognition too—consider gifting them anywhere from $10 to $30, cash or otherwise. Personal trainers warrant a tip equal to one session, and for the beauty mavens or barber enthusiasts, match your tip to the cost of one visit.
For nursing home employees, opt for a gift shared among the staff, while other caregivers may receive one to one month’s pay.
7. The No-Tip Zone:
However, not everyone can be tipped. Cashiers at major retailers like Walmart and Safeway fall into this category, so expressing gratitude through words may be the best course of action.
As the holidays unfold, remember these are just suggestions. Whether you tip big or small, the sentiment behind the gesture matters most. So, unwrap the joy of giving this season, knowing you’ve spread a little extra cheer.
