Tips on Tipping

I’m not a US News & World Report subscriber, though I admit they’re often a first choice when I’m at the airport news stand.  I stumbled on their piece about appropriate amounts to tip at year end, and thought I would pass along the key points.  This is always a “nail-biter” for me.  I want to show my appreciation.  I value courtesy and think it’s important to extend it whenever possible.  However, it’s not obvious to me how one determines where the number is between doing a Scrooge imitation or acting like Daddy Warbucks. 

 So here’s the scoop according the US News:

• The postman can get up to $20, but it’s OK to leave cookies or a little gift instead.  Newspaper delivery came in a little understand the postman with a $10 to $20 recommendation.  For the garbage truck they recommended $20 for each person on the truck.  (Oops, I’ve definitely under done that one for years.) 
• They suggest collaborating with other parents to come up with between $100 to $300 for daycare.  (I always did cookies for that!) 
• For your cleaning lady or any other personal service provider you see at least once a month (massage, personal trainer, etc.) they recommend the value of one visit.

 

Of course, the minute someone puts a number on something I have this uncontrollable impulse to benchmark.  Kiplinger recommendations run along the same lines as US News, though they did suggest just $25 to $75 for the day care provider.  (I still think a personal gift is a better bet for that one.)  Another area of difference from US News was a flat rate of $50 for a personal trainer and the cost of one visit for your hairstylist.  Interestingly the Kiplinger folks opine that if the provider of personal services acts as a confidant as well as their official job title, you should throw in a little extra. 

 Martha Stewart had a few ideas surprised me.  She frowns on giving home-made gifts in lieu of a holiday tip, which she suggests should be only for friends and family.  OK, so not everyone can be Martha Stewart, but if you take the time to make something, I think it sends a nice message.  Oh well, one of us is famous for our social suggestions, and it’s not me.  So I guess I’ll hang up my glue gun.   I will agree with Martha on another topic.  She said no need to send some cash back to your accountant if you appreciate the job done on the tax return.  Just a thank you card and repeat business will do. 

The final note in the US News article is one I have argued for years – the standard tip now is 20%.  15% is archaic.  I joined the 20% club after finding the right answer to the New York Times crossword puzzle clue on standard tip amount was – 20%.