Tipping Tips for the Holidays

Like it or not, tipping gets kicked into high gear during the holiday season. So what's appropriate to give, and what's reasonable to expect?

Etiquette expert Lizzie Post, the great-great-granddaughter of etiquette legend Emily Post, says it isn't about giving cash -- it's about giving thanks. Although where the cash is concerned, there are some hard and fast rules worth knowing -- and following.

Special Section: Holiday Gift Guide

Post shared the guidelines below for several service professions:

Hairdresser/Manicurist: Cost of one salon visit divided among the staff
Dry Cleaner: Tip not necessary, small gift is OK
Mailperson: NO CASH, small gift valued at $20 or less
Newpaper Carrier: $10 to $30 or a small gift
Housekeeper/Cleaning Person: One week's pay in cash and/or a small gift
"The Mr. Fix It Person": $15 to $40
Snow Removal Person: $10 to $30
Apartment Building Personnel: $15-$80
Babysitter: One evening's pay plus a small gift from your child(ren)

For Post's explanations and more tipping tips, click on the video below.