As the festive season approaches, many individuals consider the practice of holiday tipping. This tradition varies widely, with customs and expectations differing across communities. Whether you seek to acknowledge your mail carrier, building staff, or other service providers, understanding the unwritten rules can assist you in expressing gratitude appropriately.
This guide clarifies whom to tip, suggested amounts, and various ways to demonstrate appreciation during the holidays.
Table of Contents:
Who should you consider for holiday tipping?
During the holiday season, several key individuals often provide services that merit a tip. Below is a list of common recipients:
Service providers
Many people consider tipping those who contribute to their daily lives, such as mail carriers, building staff, and childcare providers. For instance, your mail carrier, who braves the elements to deliver letters and packages, is typically a recipient of a holiday tip. The recommended amount usually ranges between $20 and $50, depending on your relationship and the frequency of service.
Building staff
If you reside in a building with a doorman or other maintenance staff, it is customary to show appreciation during the holidays. Tipping can vary significantly based on the type of building. For doorman buildings, tips can range from $100 to $1,500, with many residents choosing a percentage based on their rent or mortgage. In buildings without doormen, smaller amounts between $20 and $100 are generally more common.
How much should you tip?
The question of how much to tip can be daunting, especially given the varying expectations across regions. Here are some guidelines:
General tipping amounts
For most service providers, the tipping amount can reflect your appreciation. A holiday tip for your hairdresser or personal trainer typically ranges from 15% to 20% of the normal service cost. Some may prefer cash, while others appreciate gift cards or small gifts as tokens of thanks.
Survey insights
A recent survey revealed insights into tipping practices among residents of doorman buildings. Approximately 23% of respondents indicated they would tip between $1,000 and $1,500, while 38% of renters in non-doorman buildings planned to give less than $250. These findings illustrate that tipping practices can vary greatly depending on living circumstances.
Creative ways to express gratitude
Tipping does not always have to be monetary. Here are some alternative methods to show appreciation:
Thoughtful gifts
Consider giving a small gift that reflects the recipient’s preferences. For instance, a box of gourmet chocolates or a festive basket filled with seasonal goodies can be a delightful surprise. Personal touches, such as a handwritten note expressing your gratitude, can make a significant impact.
Gift cards
This guide clarifies whom to tip, suggested amounts, and various ways to demonstrate appreciation during the holidays.0
This guide clarifies whom to tip, suggested amounts, and various ways to demonstrate appreciation during the holidays.1
