Employees working in Montgomery County can receive up to $325 a month to offset commuting costs through the Montgomery County Department of Transportation (MCDOT) FareShare program. The benefit covers public transit expenses, including Ride On, Metrobus, Metrorail, MTA Commuter Bus, MARC Train, and eligible vanpools.
To qualify, employers must contribute $25 per employee each month. The County then reimburses commuting costs above that amount, up to $300 per month. The money is tax-free for both employees and employers. Businesses also can claim a State tax credit worth 50% of their monthly contribution per enrolled employee. For more information on tax credits, visit Commuter Choice Maryland.
The IRS recently increased the pre-tax limit for employer-provided commuting benefits to $325 per month, up from $315 last year. The FareShare program now reimburses employers for the full allowed amount, minus their required contribution.
Businesses interested in offering transportation benefits can request free assistance from MCDOT Commuter Services. Staff members will visit employers at no cost to help set up the program. Employers also can provide additional pre-tax payroll deduction benefits for employees.
As part of the County’s efforts to reduce congestion, all businesses with more than 25 employees must distribute a travel survey. MCDOT Commuter Services will send the survey to employers at the end of March. Employees who complete the survey can enter a weekly drawing for a $50 gift card and a grand prize drawing for a $500 gift card.
For more information or assistance, contact MCDOT FareShare at commuter.services@montgomerycountymd.gov.
