Employers in Montgomery County can now add an employee benefit for certain commuting workers via the “Fare Share” program from the county’s Department of Transportation, officials announced.
The benefit program offers employers reimbursements for employees who commute by vanpools, Ride On bus, Metrobus, Metrorail or MARC train to commute to work within Montgomery County.
Businesses that would like to participate must commit to covering the first $25 per month of a worker’s commuting costs. The county then would cover additional travel costs up to $280 a month, as high as $3,360 per year, per employee in tax-free funds.
There is maximum of $40,000 set for each participating business per year; the DOT offers free assistance in setting up a program that suits each business’ needs.
“This program helps take cars off the road and lower the cost of commuting to work while reducing pollution levels,” County Executive Marc Elrich said in a press release.
“A lot of workers are returning to offices at least on a hybrid schedule,” added MCDOT Director Chris Conklin. “With gas prices so high, people are looking for alternatives that will make their commute less expensive and more convenient. Employers have an opportunity to provide an impactful benefit to their employees and to reduce their taxes.”
Businesses also could be eligible for a state tax credit of 50% of the $25 month contribution.
More information about the program is available online.
MCDOT graphic