Holiday tipping is really holiday thanking

CLEVELAND - You've made the list. Checked it at least twice. So don't forget those who've been extra nice.

“This is a great time of the year to say thank you and I appreciate what you have done for me and how you have taken care of me,” said Catherine Holloway of Etiquette Consulting Services . 

But sometimes figuring who to tip and "how much" can add to holiday stress. So think of the services you use consistently throughout the year.

“This is really the time to build service relationships and make them stronger,” noted Holloway.

Those on your must tip list include hair stylists, babysitters and tutors. Their holiday bonus should be what you would pay for one service. What if your budget doesn't allow for the expense?

A nice card or small box of chocolates will do. They're going to appreciate the gesture. They're not going to say 'oh, she gave me chocolates instead of $55.' They're not going to think like that,” Holloway said.

What about your pet groomer, favorite teller or drycleaner? Offer a gift everyone can share. And don’t forget your postal carrier. They are not allowed to accept cash, checks or gifts more than $20.

Don’t leave that gift in the mailbox. You want to make sure that you literally hand it to the mailbox and that way you have the eye contact with the person who is providing the service.

Newspaper carriers, along with trash and recycling collectors, should also receive a tip. Kiplinger's personal finance recommends $10 to $30.

Here are a few other tipping suggestions. For a home health aide or nursing home aide, a personal gift is preferable. Cash may violate company policy. For your personal trainer, dog walker or handyman a small cash gift, gift card or personal gift is sure to be well received.

For more tipping suggestions, you can go to: http://on.wews.com/sDZ9zy