We've played this game before. With the holidays upon us, it's time to figure out exactly how much better it is to give than to receive when it comes to your doorman, maid, au pair and house boy.

Our general philosophy – which we've got a feeling is in line with your own – is that people should be tipping us, especially when we agree not to run an item on them. (We kid! We never make that type of arrangement. Ever-ish!)

Never the less, Money magazine's resident experts say your holiday givings should follow the rule of two: fill the Chrismakuh card with two weeks pay, double your regular tip, etc. You get the idea.

But what happens when you're regular wad of C-notes for the doorman suddenly seems excessive, given that hubby got locked up for securities fraud? (Emphasis ours.)

Q: What if you're having a tough time financially this year. Should you explain it?

A: No, you don't owe it to your doorman to explain that you just lost your job or filed bankruptcy. Instead, try to say thank you in a way that you can afford. Maybe you can offer to tutor a child in math or chess. Maybe you can offer babysitting services. If the person who went above and beyond to help you works for a company, write a letter to his or her employer explaining detailing their great effort. To some people, tips like these are even more meaningful than money because they show you took some extra care or thought.

C'mon, who wouldn't agree that your "thoughtful" gift was worth more than a padded wallet? Take that advice and you can look forward to lost mail, stains that have long set and .. abused children.

'Tis the season for tipping. Know what to give? [Today]