From: Jami Painter, Senior Associate Vice President and Chief Human Resources Officer
Dear colleagues,
Beginning March 1, 2024, faculty and staff may enroll in a new Commuter Benefit Program, allowing them to set aside pre-tax dollars for eligible mass transit expenses through the convenience of payroll deductions. This program furthers the university’s commitment to sustainability and is designed in concert with the State Transportation Benefits Program Act.
Participation is available for active employees of any University of Illinois System location who have a regular need to use Chicago-area public transportation for work-related purposes, such as commuting between their home and their university work location. While extra help and other short-term employees may participate, there are important considerations. This program requires sufficient pay from which the elected contribution can be deducted on a regular, ongoing basis. Additionally, former employees become ineligible upon leaving the university, and must use up any funds prior to termination of university employment; otherwise, any funds remaining in an account will be forfeited under IRS rules. Students are not eligible for this program but may have other transit opportunities available to them.
See Commuter Benefit Program for enrollment and participation details.
Questions may be directed to University Payroll & Benefits: UPB Service Portal
