Christmas Is Giving!

It is now socially acceptable - if not expected - to give tips during the Christmas season. These are usually small bonuses handed out to households to the people who make your life run a little smoother for the rest of the year; usual recipients include mailmen, people working at the post office, a building or house supervisor and the paper route boy. Yet while this is som

Image by camknows via Flickr

ething of an established tradition, it can be tricky, particularly if you've moved into a new area.

Your first move should be to establish if tipping at Christmas is something your neighbors do. While you may think it harmless to tip even if your neighbors do not, it could create resentment if they find out - they may feel you are deliberately making them appear to be a Scrooge. A few well timed questions should reveal an answer - and may even reveal what is accepted to be given. If not, try the internet - a local community online where you can post the question anonymously should have the same result.

When you know if you are (or aren't) tipping, it's time to think of the tip itself. This is a tricky line to walk, as you do not want to appear overly generous, nor do you want to appear stingy. It is best to set a base rate and do the same for all the people you plan to tip. The amount is obviously dependent on your circumstances, but do not fall into the trap of spending more than you can easily afford. The tip may be a Christmas bonus for some, but don't let it ruin your Christmas by breaking the bank. A simple thank you and a decent but not excessive tip should see you right.