The holiday season is a time to give, and even though the economy is not the greatest, tipping those who take care of you year-round is a gift you just can't cut back on.

The workers who help people get through the year, might be expecting a little boost this time of year. That is why ABC 7/NewsChannel 8 reporter Courtney Robinson set out to find out who people give a little extra to during the holidays.

Holiday tipper Jaqueline Johnson tips her "mailman" and Jonathan Vandergrift tips his "dry cleaners," while Diane Pennessi tips her "mailman and trash guys."

After all, these are the services you'll be expecting before, after and during the holiday season. So do the men and women who perform these jobs year-round expect something extra from their clients during the holidays?

"Of course! yes," said Sammy Cohen, Owner of Allure Hair Salon.

In fact, Cohen says tipping during the holidays is a must. He and his business partner Greg Powers say the stylist deserve a little gratitude.

"Few hundred dollars here and there is common," said Greg Powers, Co-owner of Allure Hair Salon.

And customers seem to agree. Cohen says, despite the economy, customers are opening their wallet and giving more than last year without blinking.

Frank Dombrowski says tipping is a way of saying 'thank you,' and something he refuses to skimp on when it comes to the Dogtopia workers who care for his dog, Gabby, on a weekly basis.

"She's the only high maintenance woman I allow in my life anymore," said Dombrowski of his dog.

"We've seen everything from bagels in the morning, some really good candy, some incredible cookies, and of course, we've seen some cash come through," said Jeff Lutton, Dogtopia owner.

Lutton says it is a nice gift, and always a pleasant surprise, especially when taking into account the beak economy plaguing most Americans.

The etiquette for tipping is to typically double what you might normally pay. A hairdresser, for example, should be tipped the cost of one hair cut. And for a babysitter, a tip would be one night's pay.

Although, mailmen or trash collectors are not necessarily supposed to accept cash, some give a gift card or homemade goods to show their appreciation.

 Email To Friend           Digg It!