There are many ways to implement or improve an existing commuter benefit program at little or no cost – offering certain employee benefits can actually save your company money.
Under the Transportation Equity Act, IRS code 132(f), and California state law, employers are allowed to offer payroll pre-tax savings for transportation assistance — up to $265 a month per employee. This allows employees to save money by purchasing transit passes or vanpool vouchers with pre-tax dollars, up to $265 per month. Employers also have the option of subsidizing part of their employees’ commuting costs.
Employers or employees can create a vanpool through the SANDAG Vanpool Program and receive up to $400 per month to help offset the cost of the lease. During the 2017 fiscal year, iCommute participants saved more than six million gallons of gas, resulting in savings of more than $18 million.
Employers can buy transit passes in bulk at a discounted rate, 10-25 percent, through the Metropolitan Transit System PRONTO Partners+; yet another way to pass savings along to employees.
For more information, call 511 and say “iCommute” or email [email protected].
commuter spotlight
Try Transit pilot program
"Thanks so much for the opportunity to participate in the Try Transit pilot program! It was a great experience, and really helped motivate me to wake up earlier and catch the train to work. I loved the benefits of commuting via public transportation and will continue to use it, cutting my personal vehicle use in half.” – Heather F., Hydranautics
Commuter Tax Benefits
Employer Pre-Tax Webinar Presentation
IRS Employer's Tax Guide
Employer Plug-in SD Webinar Presentation
MTS ECO Pass Program