This week is National Bike to Work Week, so it’s the perfect push to get in gear and pedal your way to the office. And, aside from the physical and environmental benefits, there are some monetary ones as well. Of course you save money on gas, but according to the U.S. Internal Revenue Code section 132(a), bike commuters can be reimbursed up to $20 a month for riding to work. This program offers a beneficial way for employees to lower their commuting costs by using pre-tax dollars to pay for those costs; furthermore, the employer is able to enhance their benefits package, leading to employee retention.
One of the first steps in promoting commuting by bicycle is access to safe bike storage and parking. If you feel confident that your bike will be safe while you are working away, you are far more likely to ride to work. Whether you are an employee wanting to give biking to work a try, or an employer that is interested in starting a cycling program, these resources will be helpful to you: