MONTGOMERY COUNTY, Md. (DC News Now) — With hundreds returning to work in person, the FareShare program in Montgomery County is ensuring employees have help covering their travel costs.
On Friday, the Montgomery County Department of Transportation (MCDOT) announced employees working in the county could receive up to $325 a month to help cover their fare when using public transportation.
The FareShare program covers expenses incurred by passengers when using the Ride On Bus, Metrobus, Metrorail, MTA Commuter Bus or Marc Train. It also covers expenses on vanpools, as long as the employee is traveling to and from work within Montgomery County.
The program reimburses employers for the maximum amount permitted, minus the $25 contribution.
This comes after the Internal Revenue Service (IRS) increased the pre-tax limit for employer-provided benefits for commuting to work to $325 per month in January 2025. This is a $10 hike from last year.
“As the federal government returns to in-person work, we need more commuters to consider public transit options. We encourage more businesses to take advantage of this opportunity and make transit an easier choice for their workers. Employers who participate give their employees a financial break while they’re supporting a healthier, more sustainable transportation system for everyone,” said Montgomery County Executive Marc Elrich.
According to the MCDOT, businesses looking to implement or expand a transportation benefit program must commit to covering the first $25 per month of travel costs for participating employees. Montgomery County will then cover travel costs over $25, up to $300 each month.
“As a small business owner, every dollar counts,” said Erik Donald, owner of Main Engineering in Silver Spring. “FareShare allows me to offer competitive commuter benefits at a significantly reduced cost. Offering these benefits encouraged employees to switch from the stress of driving to riding on the train.”
As part of the county’s effort to reduce traffic congestion, all Montgomery County employers with more than 25 employees must distribute a travel survey to their workers, according to MCDOT. Businesses will receive the survey at the end of March.
Officials said employees who respond to the survey are eligible for a weekly drawing to receive a $50 gift card, and for one grand prize drawing for a $500 gift card.
