Local/AP
Metro changes SmartBenefits program
Associated Press
10/28/09 2:31 PM EDT
WASHINGTON — Metro is making changes to its SmartBenefits program, which allows employers to set aside money for commuting on a Metro smart card.
As of Jan. 1, money for transit and for parking will be kept in separate accounts. The IRS is requiring the change.
That means employees will no longer be able to use their assigned parking benefit to pay for their bus or their train ride.
Another change is that any unused benefits will be credited back to employers at the end of each month. That has upset many riders who contribute a portion of their before-tax salary to the program. Metro says people should check with their employers about how they will handle any unused contributions.
