When budgeting for the holidays, did you budget enough for tips?
While thoughtful, tips add up quickly this time of year.
Luckily, tipping doesn't have to go to the extreme and if money is tight, it doesn't even have to be cash.
Sandy Vanatsky said she made a list of who to tip.
"I tip at least 20%," said Sandy Vanatsky. "It's the holidays."
"I'm getting my hair done this week, so she'll get a tip," Vanatsky added. "Anyone at restaurants, all the waiters and waitresses."
But etiquette experts say holiday tipping isn't just about putting more money in the tip jar.
Who should you tip?
Lizzie Post is co-president of the Emily Post Institute, a go-to source on etiquette.
"I think the way to think about holiday tipping is an end-of-the-year 'thank you' to the service people in your life," she said.
Post says tipping is about giving a "bonus" to people who help you all year.
"People who work on you personally or with your home, with your children, with your pets in some cases," she said.
Post notes, however, that people should never feel obligated to go beyond their personal budget.
If your budget doesn't allow for tips, Post said to consider giving a small gift like gloves for a mail carrier. She reminds people it's the thought that counts.
How much is a reasonable tip?
Post said a suggested amount to tip for many service providers is one week's pay — for a nanny, housekeeper or dog walker, for example.
Or she said people can tip the cost of one session — for professionals like a personal trainer, barber, salon tech or pet groomer.
At the end of the day, Post said you can never go wrong with a handwritten note alongside the tip.
"I think using your words means so much," she said.
Shopper Alicia Vester says even if money is tight, you should try to help those who help you, even if it's just a little bit.
"I think in the economy we have, tipping is helpful, especially if you have exemplary service," she said.
And that way you don't waste your money.
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