This time of the year the subject of tipping your nanny, housekeeper and other in-home worker comes up. Things to consider when thinking about what to tip your nanny are: amount of time she’s worked for you; how good you feel about the job she’s doing; how many children you have and your own financial condition.

All of these items to consider in your tip are fairly straight forward except for your financial condition. Nannies know how you’re doing financially probably better than anyone except your spouse or accountant! If you’re having a difficult year like so many families are now, the nanny will know that and take it into consideration when you give her her annual tip. She will also know if you’re doing well and don’t tip her according to what she sees around her. She’ll feel slighted and underappreciated if you under tip.

In addition to an annual tip for good performance, a well thought out small gift and card from the children will be very much appreciated—including drawings and crafts the child made for the nanny.

Tips for nannies generally range from one-week’s salary up to a month’s salary.

Information on choosing a birthday gift for your nanny