IRS commuter benefits

Federal law allows employers three ways to reduce the cost of commuting via public transportation (bus, train, ferry or registered vanpool) or qualified parking for employees. Companies can offer employees:

1. a tax-free employer-paid subsidy
2. a pre-tax employee-paid payroll deduction, or
3. a combination of the above (shared employee- employer-paid).

Tax-exempt and pre-tax limits are set by the IRS. The following are the limits for the 2009 tax year:

• $230 per employee per month for vanpool, bus, ferry, rail (all public transportation)
• $230 per employee per month for qualified parking, or
• $460 per month per employee for both public transportation and qualified parking.

When the employee pays part or all of the cost of public transportation via a pre-tax payroll deduction, the employee can set aside up to $230 a month of pre-tax income. The employee saves federal withholding and FICA payroll taxes on the amount deducted. The employer saves paying FICA on the amount deducted. Employees may also share the cost with employers using after tax income. Pre-tax payroll deductions are referenced in the Internal Revenue Code, Section 132(F), as amended by TEA-21, Title IX, Section 910.

See our pre-tax tool kit for customizable forms, flyers, posters and links for ordering passes.

Employers are encouraged to consult a tax advisor or other professional for detailed information regarding the tax implications of commute benefits.

Links

• IRS regulations on Qualified Transportation Fringe Benefits see the 2001 Federal Register [.PDF 156kb 11 pages]
• For additional assistance contact Employer Services by e-mail employer.program@kingcounty.gov or by phone 206-263-3444.

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