Who to tip, and how much, this holiday

EAST PROVIDENCE, R.I. (WPRI) -- During the holiday season, it is customary to give the people who help you out all year a little extra to show your appreciation.

Kiplinger's Personal Finance has the following recommendations for holiday tipping

• Hair stylists, manicurists, barbers and the like should get the cost of one visit.
• A cleaning person who visits weekly should receive the cost of one service.
• Apartment dwellers should check with their building to see if there is a collective fund distributed among staffers. If not, it is recommended doormen be tipped $25 to $100, and $15 to $50 for handymen.
• Dog walkers who walk your pet five days a week or more should be tipped one week's pay. Less frequent walkers should get one day's pay.

It's important to remember that your giving may have to conform to certain rules. The U.S. Postal Service prohibits mail carriers from accepting cash gifts, or gifts with a value greater than $20. Trash collectors can receive $10 to $30 each, but some cities and towns forbid workers from accepting gifts.

For those who can't afford cash, a small homemade gift or treat will also be appreciated.