Tuesday, December 16, 2008

Who should you tip? How much?


We have this conversation every year...should I tip this person for the holidays? Some say small gifts are the best way to go. Just so your in the loop here is the official lowdown...

The Emily Post Institute offers some general guidelines for holiday tipping.
Baby sitter, nanny: For a frequent baby sitter, one day/evening's pay or a gift equal to that amount. For a live-in or everyday nanny, one week's pay, plus a gift from the child.
Day care staff: A tip of $25 to $70 to each care provider plus a small gift from your child.
Child's teacher: Check your school's policy about gift giving. If gifts are allowed, give something as a token of you and your child's appreciation. Don't give cash. Gift cards for bookstores or a favorite coffee shop are always popular.
Fitness trainer: If it's a trainer you see regularly (especially if he or she comes to your home), a tip or gift equal to the cost of one session. If it's a group-class trainer or instructor, no tip is necessary, although a small token or card is always appreciated.
Gardener: A tip equal to the cost of one service. If you pay your gardener by the month for weekly service, tip a quarter to half of the monthly fee.
Hairstylist, manicurist: If you're a regular client, a tip or gift equal to one visit, depending what your normal service costs. A gift may be more appropriate if you tip after each service. If you're an infrequent customer just getting a holiday trim or polish, double your normal service tip.
Handyman: If you use this person on a regular basis, a $15 to $40 tip.
Home health employees: Check with the agency first, since some home nursing groups have a no-gifts/no-tips policy. If that's the case, consider making a donation to the agency.
Housekeeper: A tip equal to the cost of one service. It it's a live-in housekeeper, give a tip equal to one week's pay.
Massage therapist: A tip or gift equal to one session if you get frequent massages from this person. If you're only an occasional client, double your normal tip at the holidays.
Pet sitter: If you frequently use the same pet sitter, give a tip or gift equal to one or two days' pay.

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