How Much to Tip Your Mail Carrier

Mail carriers work hard during the year to deliver your letters and packages. Sometimes they have to trudge through snow or ice, walk in hot temperatures and get barked at or chased by dogs. During the holiday season, many people decide to give their mail carrier a tip to provide them for their service during the year.

Cash

Mail carriers are not allowed to accept any amount of cash, even if you give it to them as a check or money order.

Gift Cards

You can give your mail carrier a gift card with a value of $20 or less. They would surely appreciate a gift card to a bookstore, coffee shop, restaurant or department store.

Baked Goods

You can give your mail carrier baked goods as a gift, as long as they're not offered as part of a meal.

Under $20

You are allowed to give any item as a gift as long as the value is below $20. They likely would appreciate a nice card, book, mug, tie, CD, T-shirt, plaque or other item.

Guidelines

If you are not sure if your gift is allowed, you should contact the U.S. Postal Service Law Department's Ethics Helpline at 202-268-6346 or send an email message to [e-mail].

References

• Tip Guide For Mail Carriers
• Tipping Guide