Union Transit Subsidy/SmartBenefits
Collective Bargaining Unit Employees, Compensation Units 1 & 2 Commuter Benefits
As a result of collective bargaining, the DC Government will provide $50 per month to eligible DC Government bargaining unit employees, who are members of collective bargaining Compensation Units 1 or 2 and use Metro public transportation to commute to and from work. If you are a bargaining unit employee covered by a collective bargaining agreement that includes this benefit, you are entitled to receive it providing you use Metro to commute to and from your place of employment with DC Government.
Resources
SmartBenefits FAQs
Who is eligible for SmartBenefits?
District Government employees who are members of collective bargaining Compensation Unit 1 or 2.
How do I register for SmartBenefits?
Eligible employees need to complete the SmartBenefits application and return it to DCHR via email at [email protected] or in person at the DCHR Benefits and Retirement Administration office located at 1015 Half Street, SE, 9th floor.
Once I turn in my application when will I receive my SmartBenefits?
If your form is received before the 15th of the month, the benefit will begin the first day of the following month. Example: For applications received on September 6, the employee’s benefit will begin on October 1. If your form is submitted after the 15th of the month, the benefit will begin the first day of the second month after the application is received. Example: For applications received on September 17, the employee’s benefit will begin November 1, not October.
How will I receive my SmartBenefits?
To receive the $50 benefit each month, you will need to go to a Metro SmarTrip fare vending machine between the first and last day of each month.
Can I load my SmartBenefits onto any SmarTrip card?
No. Your SmartBenefits must be loaded onto a card that matches your name as it appears on the SmartBenefits application. It is not permissible to load your SmartBenefits onto another person's SmarTrip card, doing so would be a direct violation of the SmartBenefits application disclaimer that may result in your removal from the program and legal action.
Can I add funds to this SmarTrip Card?
Yes. It is anticipated the $50 will act as a subsidy to the funds you already use for your daily commute to and from work. You can easily add value to the card at any Metro SmarTrip fare vending machine.
Will this benefit affect my taxable income?
This benefit is not included as income and will have no bearing on your taxes.
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