How to Tip a Mail Carrier

U.S. Postal Service regulations state that mail carriers are not allowed to accept gifts of cash from their customers. They may accept gifts of food and beverages, perishable items such as flowers and cookies and gifts with a retail value of less than $20. Tipping is never required, but is often done around the holidays by people who see their mail carrier on a regular basis.

Difficulty: Easy

Instructions

1. Think about what you know about your mail carrier when choosing what to give him as a tip. If he frequently comments on needing his morning coffee to get going, a gift of a coffee mug and some coffee might be appropriate.

2. Fill a gift basket if you are unsure what your carrier would like. Candles, warm gloves and hats in the winter time or cheese and crackers are some examples of items that most people would enjoy receiving as a tip.

3. Make a handmade gift. If you are crafty or have a special talent, consider making a gift for your mail carrier. Crochet or knit a scarf, make something in ceramics or frame one of your favorite paintings and give it to your carrier for a tip.

4. Bake something special for your mail carrier. If you are looking to tip your mail carrier at Christmas, Easter or another holiday, bake her some cookies or a pie.

5. Buy a box of candy or some sweets from the local bakery if you do not have the time to do the baking yourself.