TSB-2017- 15 Active Bicycle Commuting (ABC) Subsidy: May through October 2017
Bulletin #: TSB-2017-15
Date: September 10, 2017
Subject: Active Bicycle Commuting (ABC) Subsidy: May through October 2017
Purpose: This Bulletin provides updated guidance about the DOT Bicycle initiative in support of transit flexibility, health and wellness, and transportation infrastructure sustainability.
Background: The Department of Transportation (DOT) recognizes bicycling and other forms of active commuting as a highly efficient mode of transportation, providing a wide range of benefits, including less wear and tear on roads and bridges, improved air quality, reduction in traffic congestion, and improved personal health.
DOT has established an Active Bicycle Commuting (ABC) Subsidy initiative consistent with 5 U.S.C. 7905 which can be used in conjunction with the transit benefit described in 26 U.S.C. 132(f). The objective of this initiative is to promote and expand the use of bicycles for commuting purposes and to further stimulate active transportation. The ABC Subsidy is a taxable fringe benefit that can be used in conjunction with your monthly transit benefit.
Information:
DOT employees (excluding FAA) are eligible to apply for this subsidy. Forms are required that certify bicycle use for the work commute in conjunction with the transit benefit during the month claimed. Note: Contractors and other NonDOT federal employees working in DOT offices are not eligible.
The monthly maximum amount of the ABC subsidy is $20 per participant. This amount is equivalent to the transit bicycle benefit. However, unlike the bicycle benefit, the ABC subsidy is to be recorded as a taxable fringe benefit on the employees W-2 form. Eligible DOT employees can submit a claim that will be reimbursed for self-certified out of pocket expenses not exceeding $20 per month up to $240 per participant during the period of November1st –October 30th to include, but not limited to: bicycle related clothing, helmet, gear, etc. Receipts are required for each claim.
Claim submissions for the months of May 2017-October 2017 are due on October 5, 2017.
Restrictions:
Participants who submitted claims for the bicycle benefit for the months of January- September 2017 who now qualify for the ABC subsidy may only submit claims for the month of October 2017.
Required Action:
If you wish to submit claims for this ABC Subsidy taxable fringe benefit, please visit http://dotnet.dot.gov/
- Choose Parking/Transit.
- Under DOT Item 4 (DOT ABC Subsidy) select the following forms:
- ABC Subsidy Certification Form
- Standard Form 1164
- Direct Deposit Sign-Up Form
- Submit your completed signed forms along with your paid receipts via email to Parking.TransitOffice@dot.gov.
Contact: For more information, please contact the Parking and Transit Office Parking.TransitOffice@dot.gov.