If you’re rethinking whether to spread the holiday cheer by tipping this year, you might not be alone. Fewer Americans are planning to tip their service providers this holiday season compared to last year — from their housekeepers, trash collectors and gardeners to mail carriers, teachers and childcare providers.

More than half of U.S. adults (56%) say they usually give bigger tips when they receive better service, according to Bankrate’s 2025 Holiday Tipping Survey. Still, about 2 in 5 (38%) say that they simply feel obligated to tip — regardless of the service received.

For many, the holiday season is the time to show appreciation, including giving tips or gifts to workers that care for their children or homes. Here’s how many Americans who use each service are planning to tip service

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