DoSayGive’s Holiday Tipping Guide

It’s that time of year when we need to start thinking about how to thank the people who help us all year long — hair stylists, care givers, and delivery drivers, just to name a few. DoSayGive is here to help with a full list of service providers to consider plus suggested amounts, including a (free!) printable holiday tipping guide so you don’t forget anyone!

Year end tipping can be such a blessing to people in the service industry. Think of it like a holiday bonus!

Sometimes though, cash is not appropriate in all situations. For example, the USPS prohibits cash gifts. And it’s inappropriate to tip people like a therapist or a child’s coach (a gift card is fine, though!). 

We’ve outlined everything you need to know about holiday tipping below. Do remember that these are meant to serve as suggestions — use your budget and the below list to guide you this year. If tipping is not in your budget, consider writing a note from your family or having your children make cards to let people know you are grateful for all of their service. If tipping is within your budget this year, a handwritten note of thanks along with a cash gift means so much!

Consider Giving a Holiday TIP To:

• Housekeeper: Up to one or two week’s pay plus a small gift. Split between team if you use a cleaning company.
• Nanny or caregiver: Up to one or two week’s pay plus a small gift.
• Day care workers and adult caregivers $25-75 per person for anyone who works with your family member.
• Regular babysitter: Up to one night’s pay. 
• Hair stylists, nail technicians, and estheticians: Up to the cost of one service.
• Dog groomers and walkers: Up to the cost of one service.
• Doormen or country club staff who help you regularly: $50-100.
• Landscape service: $15-30 per person. 
• Trash collector: $15-30 per person.
• Regular handyman: $20-50.
• Dog walker: Up to one week’s pay.
• Pet groomer: Up to the cost of one service. 
• Personal trainer: Up to one week’s pay.
• Pool cleaner: Up to the cost of one service.
• Newspaper carrier: $10-20.

Consider Giving a Holiday GIFT To:

• Coaches: Small gift or gift card, or consider organizing a team gift. 
• Therapists: Small gift. 
• USPS: Small gift under $20.
• Home health or nursing home employees: Check with the agency as most prohibit cash gifts. If so, a small gift is appreciated. 
• Doctor’s office: Send cookies or food (lots of ideas here) to the staff of an office you visit regularly. 
• UPS and FedEx carriers: Small gift for regular delivery driver. Otherwise, leave out snacks or food one day or week. See example below! 

We created a handy holiday tipping graphic below (pin or save it to remember it!) with suggested tipping amounts and when it’s appropriate just to give a gift.