‘Tis the season for the end of year tipping. In general, you should probably tip anyone who has provided good service to you in your home throughout the year. This includes people such as trash collectors, paper deliverers, and even postal delivery (although some rules apply).
Of course, this is a tough season, and you may feel hesitant about being able to afford to tip. Although cash is always appreciated, you can always try alternatives, such as homemade cookies or a wonderful letter to the person’s boss. You can also pool tips with your neighbors.
Here are some general guidelines on how to tip home service providers. Tipping guidelines have been updated for this year.
Trash collectors
In our neck of the woods, the trash collectors kindly give us envelopes for placing tips. If yours doesn’t place $10-$30 in an envelope and either hand deliver it personally, or tape a note on the lid instructing the trash collector to collect the tip at your front door.
Housecleaner
If you have a regular housecleaner, tip anywhere from the equivalent of one day of service up to one week of service, depending on how often you receive service and how long the relationship has been in existence.
Paper delivery person
A tip for a paper delivery person is usually the same as for trash collectors. This is anywhere from $10 to $30.
Postal worker
Whether you want to tip your mail carrier or the dedicated postal clerk at your local post office, be aware that postal workers are prohibited from taking cash gifts. They may accept small gifts that are worth under $20 and cannot be converted to chase, such as gift cards or those homemade cookies.
Doormen or superintendent
If you live in an apartment building and have a doorman or superintendent that you want to tip, the amount will vary according to how fancy the building is. The range is anywhere from $25 to $100 per doorman or superintendent.
Handyman
A handyman who comes to your home and performs regular repairs would normally receive a tip of between $20 and $30.
Landscaper
For a landscaper or lawn service person, tip the cost of one or two regular service visits.
Mary Ann Romans writes about everything related to saving money in the Frugal Blog, creating a home in the Home Blog, caring for little ones in the Baby Blog and now managing relationships in the Marriage Blog. You can read more of her articles by clicking here.
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