In my city job, I have a lot of contact with the public. I assist people with requests, take complaints, etc. To show his appreciation for all I did for him, a client wants to give me $25. May I accept it? — Serving the public

Answer: The City Charter prohibits city employees from accepting anything — including “tips” — from anyone other than the city for doing their jobs. This “no gratuity rule” makes a lot of sense if you put yourself in the shoes of a greengrocer, or the parent of a public school student. You wouldn’t want to have to pay a cop in your neighborhood, or your kid’s teacher, extra money to do the job that you’re already paying for with your taxes.

Although a gratuity may seem innocent enough, if city employees accept tips it could potentially open them to charges of giving preferential treatment or ignoring violations in exchange for cash. You absolutely cannot accept the $25 from your former client for doing your city job. On the other hand, it would be fine for him to write a letter to your supervisor singing your praises!


“Answers from the City Ethicist” is provided by the city Conflicts of Interest Board. COIB offers advice to city employees about City Charter Chapter 68, the Conflicts of Interest Law. This column is general information, and cannot replace the text of Chapter 68. For legal advice on city ethics matters, please call the board at 212-442-1400. All calls are confidential and you may call anonymously. You may also visit online at nyc.gov/ethics.