A common question we get around the holidays is, "How much should you tip those who provide a service during the year?"

This is an important one because you don't want to over-pay, but if you're too stingy, it could affect the quality of service you receive next year. (Boy, could we tell you some stories!)

First, with any of the below suggestions, you’ll always want to take into account a few factors: How long have you used their service, How important is their service to you, and maybe most importantly, do they make an extra effort for you?

Here are a few appropriate guidelines to follow for determining the right tip amount that won't leave you looking like Ebenezer Scrooge!

Hairdresser: It's customary to leave a tip equal to the cost of one of your normal hair appointments.

Doorman: Yes, there are still some places that have doorman! We recomment between $25 and $35 dollars.  But that number can double or triple if you’re living in Manhattan for example. So know your area, and give what feels comfortable.

Nanny/DayCare Provider: A good care provider can be priceless! Tip the equivalent of 1 weeks’ worth of pay.

Babysitter: $25-$50 dollars or the equivalent of 1 night out.

Newspaper Delivery Man: $25-$50, but it really depends on how often you have a paper delivered and how dependable they are (does your paper end up in the bushes most days?).

Mailman: Federal Law stipulates that the postman is NOT supposed to accept cash tips left in the mailbox (although… shhh, we’ve never known one to turn it away!) But to keep in accordance with Federal Law, a $20 gift card to Starbucks, or other non-cash gift is preferred.

Garbage Pickup: We find $25 to be perfectly reasonable

We’re sure there are other people in your lives who did not make our list. And for those we say, be as generous as you can within your means.  A little extra cash around the holidays is always appreciated—especially for those in the service industry whose income may be negatively affected in this down economy.