Q. How do I sign up for the Transit Benefit Fare Program?
A. Ask your employer or human resources department to enroll - it's free and they'll benefit from tax savings too.
Q. How should I suggest the program to my employer?
A. Many companies are not even aware of the Transit Benefit Fare Program. Yours may be one of them. Click here to send your employer an email containing a link to the Transit Benefit Fare Program website.
Q. How much do I need to deduct from my paycheck to participate?
A. Determine your monthly commuting costs and deduct that amount, up to $125.
Q. How do I save money with pre-tax deductions?
A. You save money because the funds are deducted from your paycheck before federal, state and local taxes are taken out.
Q. What kinds of fares are available?
A. The Transit Benefit Fare Program includes RTA FareChecks, CTA Chicago Card Plus, CTA Transit Cards, and CTA Chicago Monthly Passes. FareChecks, Transit Cards, and the Chicago Card Monthly Passes are mailed directly to your employer for distribution. Chicago Card Plus cards are mailed directly to employees.
Q. Can I really save over $600 a year simply by commuting?
A. Yes, if you're enrolled in the Transit Benefit Fare Program and take advantage of the maximum deduction.
Q. Is the program mandatory for companies?
A. No. Some companies choose to participate and others do not.