Christmas Gifts for Mail Carriers — USPS Tipping Etiquette

Christmas gifts for mail carriers have USPS rules. Cash is forbidden. Token gifts allowed.

USPS rules

Cannot accept:

• Cash
• Cash equivalents (gift cards over $20)
• Any gift over $20 retail value
• Gifts that look like quid pro quo

Can accept:

• Gifts under $20 retail value
• Annual aggregate limit $50 per person
• Items personally consumed (food)

What works

Quality consumable ($10-$20)

• Premium chocolate
• Holiday cookies
• Quality coffee
• Small gift basket

Small useful item ($10-$20)

• Hand warmers
• Insulated travel mug
• Quality reusable bottle

Card alone is fine

• Handwritten thanks
• No financial value to question
• Always appreciated

What to AVOID

• Cash (will be refused)
• Gift cards over $20
• Expensive items
• Anything looking like bribery

Cross-references

For Christmas gifts for service workers — adjacent.

For Christmas tipping guide — broader.

For Christmas gifts under $50 — budget.

The right mail carrier gift is under $20. Quality consumable or small useful item. With handwritten card. Respects USPS rules.