Remembering the Mail Carrier

Associated Press personal finance writer Candice Choi writes, "This holiday season, a leaner budget might clarify which people truly make a difference in your life. The challenge will be figuring out how much to tip them."

She reports," Mail carriers... can only take non-cash gifts valued at $20 or less. That could include a gift card, but not personal checks in any amount. Alcohol isn't allowed either, even if it's worth less than $20."

Candice goes on to say, "If cash tips aren't in the budgetary stars, you can still give small gifts that don't cost a lot. Baked goods, jams and candles are the perennial crowd pleasers. But use your knowledge about the person to be creative."

She recommends, "If you feel you can't afford a tip or gift, thank you notes can still make a difference."

Shown above, Letter carrier Ron Henry delivers mail while wearing a Santa hat in Bowling Green, Ky in a 2007 AP file photo,

To read the entire article, click here.

Click here to see a Consumer Reports study on what holiday tips people gave to whom last year.