Commuter Check is a Popular Perk in Hacienda

By Hacienda Network Staff Writer

Commuter Check is a rare perk in the human resources world: a benefit that saves money for both employers and employees.

It may sound impossible, but it's true. Thanks to 1998 changes in tax laws, employers can provide Commuter Checks to their employees on a pre-tax basis. This means that employers can avoid paying payroll taxes on these benefits and employees can see their transit dollars go further, since the benefits no longer come as taxable income.

Under the new law, employers can provide up to $65 per month in these transit benefits. Commuter Checks, vouchers which can be exchanged for transit tickets and even vanpool costs, provide an easy way to pass on these benefits, whether as part of an employee's compensation or simply as an added benefit to alternative commuters.

Popular at PeopleSoft

The program is particularly popular at PeopleSoft, where approximately one out of every three employees receives Commuter Checks.

"I think it's just great to be able to give the employees this benefit," says Mara Hamilton, PeopleSoft transportation coordinator. "I think the employees really appreciate having that little extra help every month with their commutes, and I notice that people do make more of an effort to commute, which I think is beneficial to all."

PeopleSoft has participated in the program since 1997, while other companies such as ProBusiness are just beginning to get involved. In all, Commuter Checks are offered by over 2,000 Bay Area companies.

Getting Started

The easiest way to get started with Commuter Check is to contact the Hacienda Owners Association's Transportation Hotline at (925) 734-6551. Commuter Check materials may also be ordered online through Hacienda's web site.

For detailed assistance in setting up a Commuter Check program, call RIDES at (800) 755-7665.

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