In December many Americans thank people who help them all year with a small gift or tip. It is a custom, not a rule. Nobody should expect you to spend money you do not have. For everyday tipping, see Tipping beyond restaurants.
Mail carrier: carriers can accept a gift worth $20 or less from you, such as cookies, a mug or a store or restaurant gift card. They cannot accept cash or things that work like cash, such as a Visa or Mastercard gift card or a payment app transfer.
Package delivery drivers (UPS, FedEx): each company has its own rules. Snacks or a drink and a thank-you note are always fine.
Teachers: a card, a small gift or a small store gift card. Many classes collect money for one group gift from all families. Some schools limit gift value. Read school emails.
Building staff (doorman, superintendent, maintenance): in buildings with staff, many tenants give cash in a card. Ask a neighbor what is normal in your building.
Regular helpers: a babysitter, house cleaner, dog walker or hair stylist often gets extra money, often about the price of one visit.
Trash and recycling workers: some cities do not allow tips. A note is fine.
Doctors, government workers and police: no cash. A card is fine. Money to officials can look like a bribe.
Gift cards are popular. Buy them from the store's checkout or website, not from a stranger. Scam warning: no real company, boss or government office asks you to pay with gift cards. If someone does, it is a scam.
Secret Santa: each person draws a name and buys one gift for that person. Nobody knows who gave what until the end. There is a price limit, often small.
White elephant (or "Yankee swap"): everyone brings one wrapped gift. People take turns choosing a new gift or stealing one already opened. Gifts are often funny or useful.
Always stay under the price limit.
Joining is usually optional. You can say "I'll skip this year, but thank you."
Avoid alcohol, personal items and religious gifts unless you know the person well.
List everyone you want to thank.
Set one total amount for December.
Choose cards with a short note for most people, and gifts for a few.
Homemade food from your culture is a warm gift. Label any nuts or other common allergens.
Giving cash to your mail carrier. They must refuse it.
Spending above the office exchange limit.
Feeling you must give to everyone. A sincere thank-you card is always polite.