Wondering what to gift your mail carrier? We've got all the tips and protocols right here to help you make a considerate (and aboveboard) choice.
Here’s What You’re Legally Allowed to Gift Your Mail Carrier
Updated on Feb. 18, 2025
When’s the last time you gave your mail carrier a gift? If you can’t remember, that’s too long! Through rain and snow and gloom of night, as the unofficial motto goes, mail carriers work tirelessly to deliver your mail and packages, so it’s only right to recognize them for a job well done. The holidays are a logical time to give gifts for mail carriers, but there’s no reason to wait until next year, says etiquette professional Lisa Mirza Grotts, an expert on official government protocol.
“Your mail carrier works hard in all kinds of weather to ensure your letters and packages arrive safely,” Grotts says. “A small token of appreciation can go a long way in recognizing their dedication.” Whether it’s Christmas, National Thank a Mail Carrier Day (Feb. 4) or any other day of the year, it’s always a good time to show your appreciation to your mail carrier.
Gifts for mail carriers are wonderful ways to thank someone who works behind the scenes, according to etiquette pro Mariah Grumet Humbert, who frequently speaks to organizations and media outlets on the art of proper gift-giving. “Whether you see your mail carrier from time to time or you’ve never had the chance to meet them, oftentimes it is the same carrier day after day, so it gives you the opportunity to thank someone that has a daily impact on your immediate community,” she says.
One thing you definitely need to keep in mind before giving gifts to mail carriers is that they’re employed by the government. That means the rules around gift-giving are rather specific—so you may have to get creative. Ahead, we’ve got all the pro tips you need to say thanks properly and ethically.
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U.S. Postal Service guidelines for gifting mail carriers
The first place to start when questions arise about gifts for mail carriers is the U.S. Postal Service website. According to the official rules, postal workers (including carriers) cannot accept gifts from “prohibited sources,” which includes the public—aka you. There are exceptions, however, and the Postal Service ethics department lays them out in its extensive FAQs.
Grotts, who has years of government-protocol experience, cut through the legalese and nonapplicable (for you, anyway) ethics rules for Reader’s Digest. She says gifts compliant with the U.S. Postal Service could include the following:
- A small, thoughtful noncash gift (under $20)
- A store- or restaurant-specific gift card
- A handwritten thank-you note
In addition, it’s acceptable to offer a cup of coffee or small treat—but you can’t take them out to lunch. According to the Postal Service, that has an appearance of impropriety and sends the wrong message to other customers, vendors and suppliers. Finally, gifts for mail carriers can’t exceed $50 in one calendar year.
“Following these guidelines ensures fairness and compliance with federal ethics rules,” Grotts says.
How to choose the right gift for your mail carrier
It’s best not to worry too much about getting the “right” gift, according to experts. As long as you stay within the ethical guidelines, the thought really does count. When you’re chatting with your mail carrier, pay attention: Do they wear socks with a team logo? Do they have a cup of coffee balanced on the dash of the mail truck? Do they carry a water bottle?
All of these clues can help you pick out thoughtful presents. Of course, if you’re wary of picking out a personal gift for someone you don’t know very well, the gift card option exists. “Money talks, and even though they’re not allowed to accept cash, a store-specific gift card is a great alternative,” Grotts says. It’s her go-to gift every year, and it’s always appreciated.
Keep reading for some other great ideas.
The best seasonal gifts for mail carriers
Winter is prime season for getting presents for your mailman or woman. Many people choose the end of the year, when holidays converge and getting gifts for pool- and lawn-service employees, nannies and other helpers is the norm. You’re already in the holiday spirit, so what better time to gift everyone in your orbit? (If you’re accustomed to tipping directly, remember that you can’t do that with your mail carrier.)
Although there’s no shortage of postman Christmas gift ideas, other seasonal gifts are always appropriate and can be given any time of year. Here are some expert-approved seasonal gifts for mail carriers that will make an impact and show you care:
- Winter: Humbert says items that your mail carrier can use on the job, like gloves, hand lotion or lip balm, are perfect. “In colder climates, a coffee shop card would be a cozy and practical option,” Grotts adds.
- Spring: Reusable water bottles, gift cards for local businesses, honey and tote bags make great spring gifts.
- Summer: Give things to fight the heat, like cooling towels, insulated water bottles or a care package with sunscreen and lip balm. “In warmer climates, consider a gift card to a juice bar or ice cream shop,” Grotts says.
- Fall: Does your mail carrier follow local sports? Logo coffee mugs and team beanies are perfect fall gifts for mail carriers. Coffee beans, hand warmers and sunglasses-cleaning kits are other ideas that are sure to go over well.
Holiday gifts for mail carriers
If you’re looking for the best postman Christmas gift, whether store-bought or homemade, you can turn any of the above presents—like gloves, hats or water bottles—into thoughtful holiday presents with the right packaging, container or card. Or buy holiday-themed coffee beans, chocolates or a gift basket from your favorite local store. And don’t forget about the trusty gift card; it’s always a hit.
Because the holidays are so personal to many of our belief systems, it’s best to stay away from overtly religious gifts like Advent calendars and things featuring religious iconography. Likewise, even though the holidays often bring out the eggnog, brandy and Champagne, avoid gifting alcohol to your mail carrier. It’s not only assumptive, but it might also cause liability issues.
Is it OK to gift your mail carrier food?
Who doesn’t love a present you can eat? It’s perfectly OK to choose a consumable good when getting presents for your mailman or woman. In fact, both experts recommend it. “I typically give my mail carrier chocolates, local honey, coffee beans or some other type of food [or] treat item around the holidays,” Humbert says.
You’re not limited to store-bought consumables either. If you make a mean chocolate chip cookie or have just brewed a fresh pot of coffee, offer some to your mail carrier! No need to wait for National Thank a Mail Carrier Day or Christmas. On a chilly morning, you’ll be the hit of the neighborhood, no matter what day of the year it is.
Keep in mind that some people are wary of eating food from unfamiliar kitchens, so gifting homemade treats can be a judgment call. But if you have a good relationship with your carrier and you think they might enjoy your famous holiday Chex mix, decadent brownies or just a fresh cup of hot cocoa, go for it.
Gifts for mail carriers: Is “thank you” enough?
Not everyone has money to spare, especially around the holidays. Gifts for family and friends understandably take precedence, but don’t let a tight budget keep you from appreciating your mail carrier. Why not write a thank you note?
“A heartfelt handwritten note is always a wonderful gesture,” Grotts says. Writing a note shows you took the time to sit down and craft a message, which is increasingly rare today. “In a world of digital communication, a personal note can feel extra special, especially if a gift isn’t in your budget.”
Humbert adds that the gesture and meaning behind a personal note are more important than the monetary value. “I think any mail carrier would greatly appreciate a written note thanking them for their hard work.”
FAQs
Can my mail carrier accept homemade gifts?
Sure! “If making banana nut bread is your holiday tradition, go for it,” Grotts says. “Homemade treats can be a lovely gesture, but they should be well-packaged and accompanied by a thoughtful note.”
Are gift cards allowed as presents for U.S. Postal Service workers?
Yes, as long as the gift cards aren’t considered cash equivalents, like Visa and American Express gift cards. Instead, stick to gift cards for a retail establishment or coffee shop, and keep the amount under $20.
What’s an appropriate Christmas gift for a mailman?
Small, thoughtful gifts under $20 are appropriate gifts for mail carriers, the experts say. Gloves, lip balm, chocolates, store-specific gift cards and homemade treats with a nice note all fit the bill.
Why can’t I gift cash to my postman?
Mail carriers are federal employees, and they are bound by ethics rules against accepting cash or cash equivalents. You also don’t want to put your mail carrier in an untenable position, Humbert says. “This is a USPS policy, and it is best to respect their rules so you do not risk getting your mail carrier in trouble,” she says.
About the experts
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Sources:
- Lisa Mirza Grotts, certified etiquette and protocol expert and author; email interview, Feb. 3, 2025
- Mariah Grumet Humbert, certified etiquette expert and author; email interview, Feb. 4, 2025
- U.S. Postal Service: “Ethics FAQs”
- U.S. Postal Service: “Know When It’s ‘No'”
