Holiday Tipping Guide
Did you know that the tradition of tipping dates back to the 17th century? The practice first gained prominence when overnight guests at private homes would provide a sum of money, known as vails, to the host’s servants for services that had been performed or that were expected. The practice of tipping soon flourished with London coffeehouses and other commercial establishments soon adopting the practice. From that point in history until today, tipping is an expected monetary gift that is connected to service, particularly in such industries as hospitality, personal care and, yes, coffeehouses.
During the holiday season, tipping has also grown in popularity regarding year-end gifting, with the practice spreading to a wide variety of personal services that range from dogwalkers to mechanics. But who exactly should be on our holiday tipping list and how much are you expected to give?
In general, the following holiday tipping recommendations are for regular personal care services related to you, your home or family along with suggested amounts for each:
Yard workers, handymen, pool cleaners: $20 - $50 each
Housekeepers: Up to a week’s salary
Personal care workers (hair stylists, massage therapists, personal trainers): Typically, one should tip the equivalent of the charge for one haircut, massage, workout session, etc.
Babysitters: The typical cost for one evening’s payment
Daycare staff: $20 - $50 for each worker who works directly with your child
Dogwalker: Cash gift equivalent to one day or one week of service
FedEx/UPS Delivery employees: FedEx prohibits tipping over $75. UPS does not have a stated policy on tipping.
USPS letter carriers may accept a gift valued up to $20 but cannot accept tips.
Newspaper delivery person: $20-$50
There are some personal care and professional services workers for whom it would be inappropriate to tip. Instead of money, consider giving a small gift, a food item or a donation to a charity in their name:
Doctor/Dentist
Boss
Home health employees/nurses
Nursing home employees
Teachers/Tutors
And finally, there are some people in your life where a nice Christmas greeting is the only expectation. In general, the following people do not expect a holiday tip from their customers:
Cable installer
Dry cleaner
Plumber/HVAC technician
Tailor
Waste management drivers
