In fact, most jobs involve some kind of commute unless you work from home. Many employers now want to make what can be the worst - or costliest - part of your day better. After all, happier -- and wealthier -- employees are more likely to be long-term employees.
Many employers now have programs in place to help ease the burden of your commute. If you haven't asked about them -- and thoroughly read everything in your benefits package -- do so today. And if your employer doesn't yet have a program, your inquiry could prompt the start of one.
Just the Ticket
Everyone knows that money talks. But did you also know it can help you with your commute?
This year alone, you may deduct up to $105 each month from your taxable salary to use toward transit or vanpool expenses. This is done directly through an employer who will issue the actual tickets, vouchers or a debit card to be used expressly to purchase transportation tickets. All of this ensures compliance with IRS rules and regulations so you need not worry about it at tax time.
And, if driving is your only option, inquire about variable work hours. These may include: a compressed work week (the same amount of hours in four days or fewer); staggered work hours (so you're not commuting at peak hours); or flextime, which will allow you to choose your start and end times (and perhaps free you up to share rides or take alternate transportation).
Free (or Cheap) Parking
The best parking-related perk an employee can enjoy is a private parking spot.
Even if you don't drive, it may be worth something to you. Inquire as to whether your employer offers a parking cash-out program, in which you could use your alternate means of commuting and enjoy the cash value of the parking space you would have received.
If your employer doesn't have its own parking lot (or you haven't yet "earned" your own space), you can still pay less for parking. First, ask if your company offers financial assistance with parking; you may even choose to negotiate this point after you receive an offer. Ask too if company employees enjoy discounts at any local lots or garages. Finally, through your employer, you can deduct up to $200 a month from
your taxable salary to help pay for parking expenses.
Leave Your Car (or Your Laptop) at Home
Telecommuting is a much sought-after perk by many professionals today. And your employer may be happy to oblige your request, at least on a limited basis, particularly if you live in a crowded metropolitan area
or a rural location. If you don't have a home computer and you don't work on a laptop in your current position, ask your employer for a loaner to use when telecommuting.
If you're anti-automobile altogether -- and live within biking or walking distance -- consider two-wheeling (or two-footing) it to work. Your company may have an incentive program available to employees who leave their cars at home. Additionally, ask about bike lockers and racks as well as access to showers and/or lockers to make your ride or walk
easier and leave you feeling fresher all day long.
Commuters Love Company
If you're facing a killer commute, consider carpooling. If you're not sure exactly how to start, your employer may be of assistance. After all, they stand to benefit financially as well. According to the Association for Commuter Transportation, Kaiser Permanente, one of the largest healthcare employers in the world, "saves about $1,000 annually per conserved parking space" for every employee who leaves a car at home.
You may receive financial assistance if your company is one that offers car-/vanpooling subsidies. Or, depending on how "green" your employer is, you may get help accessing rideshare resources, which can involve car- or vanpooling.
