[bluedog103]

Originally Posted by redwitch

If they're driving USPS trucks, they are federal employees and not allowed to accept tips. Some of our stations do have Feds doing the mail but the vast majority are subs.

The procedure is that companies will bid to get the contract to deliver to the postal stations. This winner then has individuals bid for individual villages. Thus, everyone is an independent contractor and neither the government nor the lead contractor has to pay taxes or benefits. This is occurring more and more throughout the U.S.

Perhaps govt. employees are not supposed to accept tips but I have been sticking a few bucks, usually $20, in Christmas cards for most of my adult life and it has never been refused. My first job when I turned 18 was with the post office. I only did that until I got drafted but it was a great learning experience. I was a sub. and we sorted the mail for our own routes. Whatever route I was covering I always found that the tipping customers were noted on the sorting rack. Just a reminder to give these folks extra special service. Even now I always give our northern carrier his card just before we head south in September. I give our Villages carrier his card just before Christmas. It gets their attention and helps them remember us.
That's a good thing.