…FACE IT. This year hasn’t been easy on anybody, with the economy the way it is, people have been cutting back on spending dramatically. That DOESN’T give you the green light to ignore those around you who supply you with the services of your daily life. People such as the babysitter, hairdresser, and housekeeper are among the many who wouldn’t be wrong to get a little extra this time of year. Below is a bit of an explanation from NY’s 92.3 Now, followed by an article from CBS News.

Doormen:

$50-$100, or any combination of $50 + wine, fruit basket, flowers, gift certificate, etc. These are people that see you everyday, sign for your packages, make sure no one gets into your building that doesn’t belong there, and serve as a liaison to the service people. You want them to like you.

Nanny:

An extra weeks pay. I don’t feel like I need to explain why child care workers are so important, they take care of your children. Let them know they’re appreciated.

Hair Dresser:

It’s customary to slip them an extra $20 this time of year. If you’re faithful to the same person for years and years, a personal gift might work as well. Either way, this is someone in charge of making you look amazing, bangs beware, you want them on your side.

Housekeeper:

An extra weeks pay, unless you have more than one person who cleans at a time, then chocolates or gift certificates would work better.

Mail Carrier:

A gift somewhere around $20, gift certificates work pretty well. I mean, how well do you know your mail carrier?

Newspaper deliver person:

$10 is customary.

Personal Trainer:

$50, or a protein rich fruit cake. That was a joke, just slip them a $50.

Mani/Pedi/Massage People:

The cost of one session if you see them regularly. If you just happen to be getting a random personal service this time of year a few extra bucks in the tip will suffice.

(courtesy of 923now.com)

Next up is an article from the fine folks at CBS News who breaks it down into more detail, giving us some info on how cash isn’t always best, making sure not to tip everyone, and please, don’t drive yourself into debt. Here’s a little snip from the article…

In general, it’s customary to tip people who reliably and faithfully served you all year long. It’s a good idea to extend a gesture of thanks to people who make your life better, easier or safer in some way. Of course you want to recognize their service, but you also want to do what’s appropriate. So what are the guidelines, particularly when you’re feeling strapped for cash? If you do plan to give tips this year, these are a few tips on tipping:

Don’t Always Give Cash: When talking about tipping, cash of course is king. However, it’s probably not appropriate to give cash to everyone on your list. It may be in conflict with professional or ethical standards for folks like your lawyer, financial advisor or accountant to accept cash tips. Also, think about other situations – what’s the message when you give your child’s teacher $25 cash? It may create the appearance of a payment for preferential treatment for your child. As an alternative, consider taking up a collection with other parents to purchase an office supply or book store gift card. Also, keep in mind that postal employees and other civil servants are not allowed to accept cash, gift cards or anything worth more than $20.

(Read the rest at CBSNews.com)

…and there it is, folks. A couple of great sources that should help you decipher who you should tip, and how much this holiday season. Another thing is to remember is that most people in these times won’t be getting bonuses, so just showing someone that extra appreciation will definitely go a long way. Besides, you’ll feel better after having done it. We promise.