What is a pre-tax commuter benefit?

Commuter benefits help you to pay for the public transportation, vanpool, or parking that you need to get to and from work with pre-tax money – money you deduct from your paycheck before you pay taxes.

Vanpool applies to transit with more than five passengers and parking benefits must be used for parking at or near work, or at or near a place where you take public transportation to work (such as at a Park and Ride).

How much can I elect to contribute to my commuter benefit?

You can contribute up to $125 a month for public transit or vanpool, and up to $240 a month for parking, making a total of $365 per month ($4,380 for the year).

Did the contribution requirements for commuter benefits change in 2012?

Yes, the 2012 contribution limit for public transportation changed from $230 to $125 per month. Congress temporarily increased the limit in 2009, but without action to extend the legislation it returned to its original level of $120 per month, plus a $5 adjustment for inflation. Pre-tax contributions for parking changed to $240 per month to account for inflation as well.

Can I change how much money I put in my commuter benefit?

Yes, if you can change your contribution amount monthly if you need to, depending on if you’ll be traveling or if you’ll use other ways to get to work.

Can I use my commuter benefit to pay for gas or tolls?

No. Taxis and airport parking are also ineligible.

When can I sign up for a commuter benefit?

In most cases, you can sign up any time—the benefit will be effective for the first month possible after you make your election.

Commuter Benefit Eligible ExpensesCommuter Benefit
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