What do I say when someone greets me on Rosh Hashanah?

Here's what you need to know

When someone greets you on Rosh Hashanah, it's customary to respond with a blessing for a good year.

The specific rule is

Respond to a Rosh Hashanah greeting with 'Shanah Tovah' (a good year) or 'Shanah Tovah Umetukah' (a good and sweet year).

Background

Rosh Hashanah is the Jewish New Year, and it's traditional to exchange blessings for a good year. The phrase 'Shanah Tovah' is a simple and common response. Some add 'Umetukah' to wish for a sweet year as well.

Each source is checked against Sefaria — unverified references are dropped, never shown.