A guide to holiday tipping etiquette

How much to give the nanny, and other service providers

By BPT

Published: 6:39 PM - 12/12/13 Last updated: 7:00 PM - 12/12/13

When the holiday season arrives, so, too, does the enigma of holiday tipping. What's supposed to be a sign of gratitude for great service can quickly turn into stress as you try to decide if and how much you should tip the handyman, mail carrier, baby sitter and many more.

Lizzie Post, co-author of Emily Post's Etiquette, 18th edition and great-great-granddaughter of Emily Post, knows the finer points of tipping during the holiday season, including whom to tip, how much to tip and how to stay on budget doing so. Post has teamed up with Bank of America, and here are some of her suggestions:

Make a list: The key to holiday tipping is to plan ahead so nobody gets overlooked. A tip is appropriate for people who have provided their services throughout the year, such as your dog walker, housekeeper, personal trainer, hairstylist, doorman and trash collector. Don't forget to think of the entire family in the process as well it's always good to recognize baby sitters, day care providers and nannies.

Lizzy Post's tipping guidelines

- Barber/hairstylist cost of one salon visit or a gift

-- Baby sitter one evening's pay and a small gift

-- Handyman $15 to $40

Read more:
A guide to holiday tipping etiquette