What if I already tip at every visit?

Then a smaller holiday tip or a small gift is plenty.

Do I have to give cash?

No. These are thank-yous, and a small gift with a handwritten note counts. Nobody should stretch for it.

What about the mail carrier?

A federal rule applies there. A gift worth up to $20 on an occasion like Christmas is allowed, and cash is not.

justchristmas

How much should you tip at Christmas?

Q: How much should you tip at Christmas?

About one visit's worth. The usual guide is up to the cost of one visit for a hairdresser, up to a week's pay for a housekeeper, up to an evening's pay for a regular sitter and $10 to $30 for a newspaper carrier. That's common practice, not a rule, and a small gift with a note is fine if money is tight. In a national survey in the fall of 2025, the typical holiday tip was $50 for a housekeeper and $48 for child care.

About one visit's worth

The usual guide is up to the cost of one visit for a hairdresser, up to a week's pay for a housekeeper, up to an evening's pay for a regular sitter and $10 to $30 for a newspaper carrier. That's common practice, not a rule, and a small gift with a note is fine if money is tight. In a national survey in the fall of 2025, the typical holiday tip was $50 for a housekeeper and $48 for child care.

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Gifts and giving

What should I give my child's teacher for Christmas, and how much?

How does Secret Santa work, and how far ahead should you draw names?

What are the rules of a white elephant gift exchange?

What goes in a Christmas stocking?

How do you kindly end a family gift exchange?

What should you bring to Christmas dinner as a guest?

How long do you have to return a Christmas gift?

What if I already tip at every visit?: Then a smaller holiday tip or a small gift is plenty.
Do I have to give cash?: No. These are thank-yous, and a small gift with a handwritten note counts. Nobody should stretch for it.
What about the mail carrier?: A federal rule applies there. A gift worth up to $20 on an occasion like Christmas is allowed, and cash is not.

See the whole Christmas Checklist

Last checked Monday, November 9.

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