Postal employees work to ensure that parcels are sent through the system efficiently and are delivered on time. The public relies on the postal system for medications, business packages, retail items, and millions of letters and other correspondence sent each year. Residents may wish to show their appreciation for their postal employees, but they should know there are rules about how to go about doing so.
According to federal regulations in the United States, postal employees are eligible to receive a gift worth $20 or less from a customer per occasion, such as a birthday or holiday. That gift cannot be cash, a check or a gift card that can be exchanged for cash. No employee of the United States Postal Service may accept more than $50 worth of gifts from one customer in a calendar year. A pair of gloves, sunglasses, food gifts, and the like may be suitable, provided they are not valued at more than $20.
Another way to show appreciation is to make things convenient for postal workers. Residents should ensure that postal employees can reach the mailbox and front of the home safely. Any tripping hazards should be removed from pathways, which may include repairing cracked walkways or uneven brick or stone paths. Snow should be shoveled promptly during snowstorms. Pets should be secured so they cannot get outdoors when postal workers approach.
Postal workers may appreciate a small refreshment during their shifts. Residents can fill a basket or box with snack-sized offerings of cookies, chips, trail mix, bottled water, or juices. Carriers can grab an item as they leave the porch.
A thank-you note addressed to the carrier can be left on the mailbox. Residents can convey their feelings and express appreciation for all their mail carrier does.
During busy times, such as the holiday season and Mother's Day, postal employees in mail branches may work long hours and interact with hundreds of people. Individuals can visit their local post office and provide a lunch as a token of their appreciation.
Small gestures of gratitude and kindness can go a long way for postal employees.
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