It’s a great time of year to show appreciation for the people you are thankful to have in your life. There are a variety of ways to show your gratitude, from handmade gifts to cash–but also remember that words of gratitude can go a long way.

But what exactly should you give, and to whom? This year I have assembled my Holiday Tipping Guide with the help of EmilyPost.com.

• Au pair, live-in nanny or home health aide: Up to one week’s pay and a gift from your child(ren), if gift-giving is not against agency policy.
• Regular babysitter: Up to one evening’s pay and a small gift from your child(ren).
• Day care provider: A gift from you or $25-$70 for each staff member who works with your child(ren) and a small gift from your child(ren).
• Live-in help: One week’s pay as a cash tip.
• Housekeeper/Cleaner: Up to the amount of one week’s pay and/or a small gift.
  
• Barber or Beauty salon staff: Up to the cost of one salon visit divided for each staff member who works with you.
  
• Personal trainer: Up to the cost of one session or a gift.
  
• Massage therapist: Up to the cost of one session or a gift.
  
• Pet groomer or dog walker: Up to the cost of one session or a gift.
  
• Pool cleaner: Up to the cost of one cleaning to be split among the crew.
  
• Garage attendants: $25-$100
  
• Newspaper delivery person: $10-30 or a small gift.
  
• UPS or FedEx delivery person: Small gift in the $20 range. Most delivery companies discourage or prohibit cash gifts.
  
• Superintendent: A $25-100 or a gift, depending how friendly and helpful your super has been.
  
• Handyman: $15-40, depending how much you use their services.
  
• Trash/Recycling collectors: $10-30 each, if private. Some regulations may prohibit collectors from accepting gifts.
  
• Yard/Garden worker: $20-$50. If they work often, give up to a week’s pay.
• Mail carrier: Mail carriers working for the United States Postal Service are only allowed to accept the following items during the holiday season:
  – Snacks and beverages or perishable gifts that are not part of a meal.
  – Small gifts (travel mugs, hand warmers, etc) that are clearly no more than $20 in value.
  – Perishable items (large fruit baskets/cookie tins) must be shared with entire branch.
  Mail carriers may not accept cash gifts, checks, gift cards, or any other form of currency.

Any gift or tip should always be accompanied by a short, handwritten note of appreciation. Remember – words of gratitude go along way!

Also consider introducing the idea of charitable giving to your children from a very young age.

Judith Heft, Principal, Judith Heft & Associates is a personal financial concierge with offices in Greenwich and Stamford. She can be contacted via email at [email protected] or by phone at 203-978-1858