Your Holiday Tipping Guide: Showing Gratitude Without Stress

October 15, 2025

The holidays are full of joy, tradition, and togetherness—but they can also bring a unique kind of stress: holiday tipping. Questions like “Who should I tip?” and “How much is enough?” come up every year, and it’s easy to feel unsure.

Here’s the good news: tipping isn’t an obligation. Think of it instead as a way to say “thank you” to the people who’ve made your life a little easier throughout the year. If the word “tip” feels too transactional, call it a holiday bonus or simply a gesture of appreciation.

This guide will help you navigate the season with confidence, generosity, and a little less pressure.

Step 1: Set a Budget

Before you start writing out envelopes or hitting the cash app, figure out what you can actually afford. Holiday generosity should never put you into debt. A recent survey found that more than one-third of Americans went into the red during the holiday season, with average balances topping $1,000.

Decide how much you’re comfortable giving overall, then factor those amounts into your holiday budget just like gifts, travel, or food. Remember: a meaningful note alongside a modest tip can go a long way.

Step 2: Make Your List

Think about the people who support you regularly throughout the year—whether that’s childcare providers, dog walkers, hairstylists, housecleaners, or trainers. Your list might be long, so prioritize those whose services you rely on most often or who’ve made a special impact in your life recently.

Step 3: Follow the “Up To” Rule

Not sure how much to give? A simple guideline is to tip the equivalent of “up to one session’s pay” or “up to a week’s pay,” depending on the relationship. For example:

●     Babysitter or nanny: one night’s pay to one week’s pay

●     Housecleaner: cost of one visit

●     Hairstylist/barber: cost of one service

●     Dog walker/pet sitter: cost of one session

●     Personal trainer: cost of one session

●     Newspaper delivery: $10–$30

●     Trash/recycling collectors: $10–$30 each

For building staff, larger tips are common, especially for supers, doormen, or longtime maintenance workers. Some apartment buildings organize a group collection for staff—if yours doesn’t, you could suggest it.

Step 4: Add a Personal Touch

A card, handwritten note, or even a quick conversation to express thanks can make your gift feel special. If you’re sending money electronically, add a thoughtful message to personalize the gesture.

Not every token has to be cash. Homemade treats, small thoughtful gifts, or gift cards can be a meaningful alternative—especially when cash isn’t allowed. For example, USPS mail carriers can’t accept cash or gift cards, but they can accept small items worth $20 or less.

Step 5: Think Creatively If Money’s Tight

If your budget is stretched thin, don’t skip showing gratitude altogether. A heartfelt note, homemade cookies, or even a small gesture like offering snacks to delivery drivers can go a long way. Teachers, coaches, and caregivers often appreciate practical or group gifts as much as cash.

The key is to show that you notice and value their efforts. Sincerity matters more than dollar signs.

Step 6: Don’t Stress Over “Enough”

One of the biggest sources of tipping anxiety is worrying that your gift isn’t as much as someone else’s. But this isn’t a competition. Doing what you can is always better than doing nothing at all.

Many service providers say they appreciate the recognition as much as the money. A small gesture wrapped in genuine gratitude can leave a lasting impression.

The Bottom Line

Holiday tipping isn’t about following strict rules—it’s about appreciation. Whether you give cash, a gift, or just a thoughtful note, what matters most is the spirit behind it.

This season, set a budget, make your list, and give from the heart. After all, gratitude is one gift that never goes out of style.

Sources:

https://www.fidelity.com/learning-center/smart-money/holiday-tipping-guide

Disclosure:

This information is an overview and should not be considered as specific guidance or recommendations for any individual or business.

This material is provided as a courtesy and for educational purposes only.

These are the views of the author, not the named Representative or Advisory Services Network, LLC, and should not be construed as investment advice. Neither the named Representative nor Advisory Services Network, LLC gives tax or legal advice. All information is believed to be from reliable sources; however, we make no representation as to its completeness or accuracy. Please consult your Financial Advisor for further information.