Have you found yourself feeling a bit awkward about end-of-year tipping? How much is enough? Does the 20% rule apply? To whom does it apply?

Here’s a guide to making sure that you tip well and that you still have a happy trainer, delivery person, and parking lot attendant in the New Year.

Postal workers: Postal workers cannot receive more than $20 in cash, which is an appropriate tip during the holidays. Many people give baked goods or a gift certificate (under $20 in value, remember).

Personal caregivers, daycare providers, and teachers: Cash gifts are always appreciated but gift cards are just as good. Consider joining up with other parents to give each teacher $100 to $300. Think of it more as a holiday gift than a tip.

Door attendants of residential buildings: Plan on giving each worker at least $20 and sometimes closer to $100, depending on the type of building and its traditions. If you are not sure, ask a long-time residents or the building manager.

Cleaning service provider: Give the value of one visit. If you usually pay $100 per week, then give at least an extra $100 around the holidays.

Regular service providers – hairstylist, trainer, aesthetician, etc: Similar to the cleaning service recommendation, consider giving a tip equal to the value of one visit. This guideline only applies to people you see regularly (more than once a month). Otherwise, a 20% tip per visit without an additional holiday boost is standard.

Newspaper delivery person: A gift of between $10 and $20 or more in an envelope will help show your appreciation for all those cold and rainy mornings you can pick up your paper without getting dressed.

Garbage collectors: This thankless job often gets overlooked at tipping time, but consider giving each worker at least $20.

Skycaps or porters encountered on your holiday travels: The skycap at the airport typically gets $2 to $3 per bag. If you are running late and they are of particular assistance, then add $1 to $2 per bag.

Hotel services: for doormen at hotels, tip anywhere from $2 to $5. For housekeeping services, tip $1 to $2 per night.

People you can skip: Here’s some good news for your budget.
There’s no need to tip the:
• owner of an establishment (such as a hair salon)
• salaried staff (such as salespeople)
• full-service gas attendants
• furniture delivery people (charges are included)
• a flower delivery person.

Rule of thumb… When in doubt, always tip and tip up! Enjoy the holidays!