Part 1. Organization, Finance, and Management

Chapter 32. Servicewide Travel Policies and Procedures

Section 15. Public Transportation Subsidy Program (PTSP)

1.32.15 Public Transportation Subsidy Program (PTSP)

Manual Transmittal

July 22, 2020

Purpose

(1) This transmits revised IRM 1.32.15, Servicewide Travel Policies and Procedures Public Transportation Subsidy Program (PTSP).

Material Changes

(1) IRM was updated to reflect the change in oversight organizations.

(2) The TRANServe Card is the primary vehicle used to purchase commuting benefits.

(3) IRM 1.32.15.1, Program Scope and Objectives, section updated to reflect the use of mass transportation. Policy and Program owners changed due to the change in oversight organizations.

(4) IRM 1.32.15.1.1, Background, updated to reflect the use of mass transportation. Last sentence changed.

(5) IRM 1.32.15.1.3, Responsibilities, section changed to new organization management officials.

(6) IRM 1.32.15.1.3.1, Chief, Financial Officer and Deputy Chief, Financial Officer, changed to Human Capital Officer and Deputy, Human Capital Officer.

(7) IRM 1.32.15.1.3.2, Associate Chief Financial Officer for Financial Management changed to Director, Payroll and Personnel Systems and Associate Director, Ogden Payroll Center.

(8) IRM 1.32.15.1.3.3, Director, Travel Services, changed to Financial Services Manager - PTSP.

(9) IRM 1.32.15.1.3.4, Department of Transportation (DOT) changed to reflect DOT’s responsibility in maintaining the TRANServe website.

(10) IRM 1.32.15.1.3.6, Participants, updated and changed the order. Added new statement.

(11) IRM 1.32.15.1.3.7, Management, name changed to Manager of Record, updated section and changed the order. Added new statement.

(12) IRM 1.32.15.1.3.8, IRS Employee Resource Center, section updated.

(13) IRM 1.32.15.1.3.9, Public Transportation Subsidy Program Office, updated section and changed the order.

(14) IRM 1.32.15.1.4, Program Management and Review, updated to reflect the current process.

(15) IRM 1.32.15.1.5, Program Controls, updated to reflect the current process.

(16) IRM 1.32.15.1.6, Terms/Definitions, new definition added.

(17) IRM 1.32.15.1.7, Acronyms, updated to reflect change in organization.

(18) IRM 1.32.15.2, Policy and Eligibility, updated and new statement added.

(19) IRM 1.32.15.2.1. Employees Covered, section updated.

(20) IRM 1.32.15.2.3, Transportation Authorized, section name changed to Authorized Modes of Transportation.

(21) IRM 1.32.15.2.4, Transportation Costs Not Authorized, section name changed to Unauthorized Expenses, section updated.

(22) IRM 13.2.15.3, Subsidy Payment Types, section name changed to Benefit Payment Types, section updated.

(23) IRM 1.32.15.3.1, Transit Subsidy, section name changed to Transit Benefit, section updated.

(24) IRM 1.32.15.3.2, Cash Reimbursement Benefit, removed.

(25) IRM 1.32.15.4, Calculating/Adjusting Benefits (Applies Only to Participants Who are Receiving Quarterly Transit Vouchers.

(26) IRM 1.32.15.5, Vanpool Owner Out of Pocket Expenses, removed, replaced with TRANServe Website.

(27) IRM 1.32.15.6, Application Process, section updated.

(28) IRM 1.32.15.6.1, Vanpools section combined with IRM 1.32.15.6.2, Private and Public Vanpools.

(29) IRM 1.32.15.6.2, Private and Public Vanpools, section combined with Vanpool and moved to IRM 1.32.15.6.1.

(30) IRM 1.32.15.7, Subsidy Distribution Process for Vouchers, section updated, and name changed to, Benefit Distribution Process for Vouchers.

(31) IRM 1.32.15.7.1, Distribution of Transit Subsidy, section renamed, Distribution of Transit Benefit, section updated. Paragraph 7, 8 and 9 removed.

(32) IRM 1.32.15.7.2, Cash Reimbursement, section name changed to, Cash Reimbursement Eligibility, section updated.

(33) IRM 1.32.15.7.3, Annual Recertification, section updated and moved from IRM 1.32.15.10.

(34) IRM 1.32.15.8, Separating Employees, name changed to Separated, Furloughed, Extended Leave and/or Non-Work Status Employees and section updated.

(35) IRM 1.32.15.8.1, Withdrawing from the Program, section updated.

(36) IRM 1.32.15.9, Descriptions of On-line Forms, section removed

(37) IRM 1.32.15.9.1, PTSP Manual Forms, section updated and moved to IRM 1.32.15.9.

(38) IRM 1.32.15.10, SmartBenefits, section updated and moved from IRM 1.32.15.11.

(39) IRM 1.32.13, Details, section updated and moved from IRM 1.15.32.11.

(40) IRM 1.32.15.12, Unlimited Pass, section updated and moved from IRM 1.32.15.13

(41) IRM 1.32.15.13, TRANServe Card, section updated and moved to IRM 1.32.15.14.

(42) IRM 1.32.15.14, Home Delivery of TRANServe Card, section updated and moved to IRM 1.32.15.15.

(43) IRM 1.32.15.15, Senior Passes, section updated and moved to IRM 1.32.16.

(44) IRM 1.32.15.16, Teleworking, section updated and moved to IRM 1.32.15.17.

Effect on Other Documents

IRM 1.32.15, dated October 24, 2017, is superseded.

Audience

All Divisions and Functions

Effective Date

(07-22-2020)

Robin D. Bailey, Jr.
Human Capital Officer

1.32.15.1 (07-22-2020)

Program Scope and Objectives

  1. The Public Transportation Subsidy Program (PTSP) was established to encourage employees to use mass public transportation when commuting to and from work. The benefits will be limited to the maximum monthly amount, excluded from income under section 132(a)(5) of the Internal Revenue Code.

  2. Purpose: This Internal Revenue Manual (IRM) contains policies and procedures for the Public Transportation Subsidy Program (PTSP). To provide benefits to enrolled participants to commute from their home to their permanent Post of Duty (POD).

  3. Audience: This IRM provides information for PTSP participants, managers, National Treasury Employee Union (NTEU) and employees who need more information concerning the program.

  4. Policy Owner: Human Capital Officer and Deputy Human Capital Officer.

  5. Program Owner: Associate Director, Ogden Payroll Center and the Public Transportation Subsidy Program Office develops and maintains this IRM.

  6. Primary Stakeholders: Public Transportation Subsidy Program Office and Department of Transportation.

  7. Program Goals: The PTSP program will provide monthly and quarterly benefits to employees to use for commuting to/from work through mass transportation, as well as guidance on how to enroll, use benefits, and return benefits when not in use.

1.32.15.1.1 (07-22-2020)

Background

  1. The Internal Revenue Service (IRS) Public Transportation Subsidy Program (PTSP) was established to encourage employees to use mass public transportation when commuting to and from work. This action improves air quality, reduces traffic congestion, and conserves energy by reducing the number of single occupancy vehicles on the road.

  2. Employees using public transportation to commute to and from work may apply for transit subsidy benefits under the IRS PTSP.

  3. Eligible employees using an authorized public transportation method will receive an employer-provided fare subsidy to apply toward their monthly transit costs.

  4. The IRS will pay the transit benefits from appropriated funding, using stipulated guidelines.

  5. Transit benefits, up to the maximum monthly amount is excluded from income, nontaxable monthly limit allowed by law.

1.32.15.1.2 (10-24-2017)

Authorities

  1. Federal Workforce Transportation, Executive Order 13150, dated April 21, 2000

  2. Public Transportation Program, Treasury Directive 74-10, dated November 3, 2000

  3. Energy Policy Act of 1992, Pub. L. No. 102-486

  4. Deficit Reduction Act of 1984, USC (§) 132

  5. Federal Employees Clean Air Incentives Act, Pub. L. No. 103-172 (5 USC § 7905)

  6. Transportation Equity Act for the 21st Century, Pub. L. No. 230-178

1.32.15.1.3 (07-22-2020)

Responsibilities

  1. This section lists the responsibilities for:

    1. Human Capital Officer

    2. Deputy Human Capital Officer

    3. Director, Payroll and Personnel Systems

    4. Deputy, Payroll and Personnel Systems

    5. Associate Director, Ogden Payroll Center

    6. Financial Services Manager - PTSP

    7. Public Transportation Subsidy Program Office

    8. Department of Transportation

    9. IRS Fare Media Distributor

    10. Participants

    11. Manager of Record

    12. IRS Source

1.32.15.1.3.1 (07-22-2020)
Human Capital Officer and Deputy Human Capital Officer

  1. Human Capital Officer and Deputy Human Capital Officer are responsible for the oversight of the PTSP Program.

1.32.15.1.3.2 (07-22-2020)
Director, Payroll and Personnel Systems and Associate Director, Ogden Payroll Center

  1. Director Payroll and Personnel Systems and Associate Director, Ogden Payroll Center, are responsible for administering the PTSP Program.

1.32.15.1.3.3 (07-22-2020)
Financial Services Manager - PTSP

  1. Financial Services Manager - PTSP is responsible for:

    1. Administering the Interagency Agreement with the Department of Transportation.

    2. Providing technical advice and assistance to customers and stakeholders.

    3. Performing program audits and reviews.

    4. Performing random sample audit reviews to ensure PTSP benefits are used correctly.

    5. Ensuring separating employees are removed from the IRS PTSP program.

1.32.15.1.3.4 (07-22-2020)
Department of Transportation

  1. The Department of Transportation (DOT) performs the following tasks for IRS under an interagency agreement:

    1. Maintaining TRANServe Website.

    2. Processing applications and maintaining a record of active participants.

    3. Disbursing transit subsidies.

    4. Maintaining records of subsidy disbursements.

    5. Providing disbursement activity reports.

    6. Coordinating with local transit authorities.

1.32.15.1.3.5 (10-24-2017)
IRS Fare Media Distributor

  1. The IRS Fare Media Distributor (FMD) is responsible for:

    1. Ensuring the successful disbursement of the transit subsidy within their geographic area.

    2. Receiving and distributing transit vouchers in locations where the TRANServe Card isn't accepted.

    3. Tracking and maintaining records of distributed fare media using established procedures.

    4. Informing participants that their PTSP issues may be forwarded to the Employee Resource Center (ERC).

1.32.15.1.3.6 (07-22-2020)
Participants

  1. The participants are responsible for:

    1. Ensuring the New Transit Benefit Application, Rate Change/Address and SmarTrip Change Application, the Annual Recertification Application, and Withdrawal Application are submitted electronically and following up with their manager to ensure the timely approval of their form.

    2. Following program guidance by completing the PTSP Awareness Briefing 19239 on Integrated Talent Management (ITM), prior to initial enrollment and/or re-enrollment in the program.

    3. Ensuring the benefit requested and received is the proper amount for the approved mode of transportation and vendor in their current application. The amount of transit subsidy must not exceed the employee’s actual monthly public transportation commuting cost.

    4. Ensuring proper use of the benefit. It is allowed only for the commute between the participant's residence and work location. This work location can be the permanent POD or a minimum of 90-day detail location. It must not be sold or transferred to another individual.

    5. Ensuring adjustments are made to transit subsidy amounts when there are changes to transit vendor/provider, commuting cost, work schedule, contact information, manager, or home/work address.

    6. Ensuring parking expenses are not included as part of the commuting cost.

    7. Returning the unused transit benefit by using Form 11664-G, PTSP Participant Return of Fare Media.

    8. Returning benefit received in advance, upon separating from the IRS.

    9. Using the most cost-effective/cost-efficient transit benefit type for your commute.

  2. If the above responsibilities are not met, the participant may be suspended, withdrawn and/or billed for discrepancies in benefits usage.

    • All billing of PTSP benefits for misused/abused funds will originate from the Beckley Finance Center (BFC).

1.32.15.1.3.7 (07-22-2020)
Manager of Record

  1. Manager of Record is responsible for:

    1. Ensuring the employees are eligible.

    2. Completing the PTSP Awareness Briefing 19239 in ITM, and ensuring their participating employees do the same.

    3. Ensuring that all the Transit Benefit Applications on the TRANServe website for their employees are approved/disapproved within 15 business days of the participant submission. PTSP applications that are not approved timely by the manager, may result in a disruption of PTSP benefits to the employee.

    4. Assisting separating employees to ensure they withdraw from the program and return or destroy the TRANServe Card, as well as return the transit voucher, and/or transit benefit to the PTSP Office using Form 11664-G, PTSP Return of Fare Media.

    5. Ensuring employees who telework are claiming the correct amount of commuting days to/from their residence and official POD and not including telework days.

    6. Ensuring participants use their PTSP benefit in accordance with program guidelines.

    7. Ensuring participants within reason, use the mode of transportation that is most cost-effective/cost-efficient for the government.

    8. Reporting suspected misuse/abuse of PTSP benefits.

1.32.15.1.3.8 (07-22-2020)
IRS Employee Resource Center

  1. The OS GetServices serves as the first contact point for employee PTSP questions or concerns. The IRS Source provides program information and instructions.

1.32.15.1.3.9 (07-22-2020)
Public Transportation Subsidy Program Office

  1. The Public Transportation Subsidy Program Office is responsible for:

    1. Administering the Interagency Agreement with DOT.

    2. Providing technical advice and assistance to customers and stakeholders.

    3. Performing program and audit reviews, TRANServe Card activity and reporting misuse/abuse of PTSP funds for repayment to BFC.

    4. Ensuring separating employees are removed from the PTSP program timely.

    5. Ensuring parking expenses are not included as a part of the commuting costs.

    6. Administering and managing the annual recertification of PTSP.

1.32.15.1.4 (07-22-2020)

Program Management and Review

  1. The PTSP Staff performs the following reviews:

    1. Performs a full review of all PTSP applications on the TRANServe website.

    2. Random sample audit review to ensure PTSP benefits are used correctly.

    3. DOT Funding Reports: These reports are received monthly and upon request from the Department of Transportation (DOT). They are reviewed to keep IRS abreast of the financial status of the PTSP program.

    4. Review unusual transactions and program fund usage for accuracy and proper use of PTSP benefits.

    5. Report misuse/abuse of PTSP benefits.

    6. Review TRANServe Card participant activity reports and report misuse/abuse of PTSP funds for repayment to Beckley Finance Center (BFC).

    7. Administer Annual Recertification to ensure PTSP participants review and recertify their PTSP benefits.

    8. Return of Fare Media: A review is done of all participants instructed to repay the government because of improper use of fare media.

    9. Withdrawal Review: A monthly review ensures all separated PTSP participants are removed from the PTSP database.

1.32.15.1.5 (07-22-2020)

Program Controls

  1. The following controls are in place to ensure compliance:

    1. Recertification: Participants are automatically suspended from the PTSP program if they fail to complete the PTSP Annual Recertification Application within the required timeframe.

    2. Return of Fare Media: Participants must reimburse the government, via check or money order, for improper use of fare media.

    3. Withdrawal: A PTSP staff member will remove separated PTSP participants if they are still in the PTSP database.

    4. All TRANServe applications will be reviewed for accuracy.

    5. Internal audits may be performed to ensure compliance with the policy contained in this IRM.

1.32.15.1.6 (07-22-2020)

Terms/Definitions

  1. In this IRM, the terms below have the following meanings:

    1. Carpool - An arrangement between people to make a regular journey in a single vehicle, typically with each person taking turns driving.

    2. Cash Reimbursement - An electronic payment deposited to a participant’s bank account of record to reimburse transit expenses when the transit pass is not readily available.

    3. Commuter Highway Vehicle/Vanpool - A privately owned highway vehicle that seats at least six adults and one driver and uses 80% of total mileage to transport to and from work. On trips for this purpose, the number of riders must be at least 50% of the adult seating capability, not including the driver.

    4. Detail-Temporary assignment of an employee to a different position for a specified period, with the employee returning to regular duties at the end of the timeframe. This includes positions at equal, higher, or lower grades.

    5. Distribution Site - An IRS site where participants can pick up their transit subsidy from a Fare Media Distributor (FMD).

    6. Fare Media Distributor (FMD) - Individual responsible for receiving and distributing transit vouchers in locations where the TRANServe Card isn’t accepted. The FMD also tracks and maintains records of distributed fare media using established procedures.

    7. Local Transit Authority - An area vendor that provides transportation.

    8. Manager of Record - The manager of record is the participant’s direct manager or another manager, given temporary access by the direct manager to review and approve applications.

    9. Non-Temporary Work Location - A location where employment is realistically expected to last more than one year, or there is no realistic expectation that it will last for one year or less, regardless of whether it actually exceeds a year.

    10. Post of Duty (POD) - A place where an employee regularly performs his or her duties.

    11. Public Transportation - Transportation provided in a mass transit vehicle or commuter highway vehicle. Acceptable modes of public transportation are: bus, ferry, subway, train, and vanpool.

    12. Standard Employee Identifier (SEID) - A computer generated alpha numeric string that provides a unique identifier for each IRS employee, eliminating the need for social security number identification. SEID numbers are found on the Discovery Directory or in Outlook.

    13. Subsidized Parking Space - A space specifically assigned to an employee and paid for by the IRS.

    14. Time-Sensitive Fare Media - A fare payment for use within a specified timeframe, e.g., monthly subsidy.

    15. TRANServe Card - A card that provides transit benefits electronically. The primary goal of the TRANServe Card is to use a single fare media delivery system that offers enhanced internal controls to preserve the transit benefit by deterring waste, fraud, and abuse.

    16. Transit Pass/Voucher - A non-cash instrument that is either accepted by the local transit authority as fare payment or exchanged for an acceptable form of payment. It is tax free and issued in advance. Vouchers are used in areas that do not accept the TRANServe Card.

    17. UBER/LYFT - Is a car for service, not mass transportation, therefore, the PTSP benefit may not be used for UBER, LYFT or any pay for service transportation.

    18. Unlimited Transit Pass - A media that allows public transit passengers to take either a certain number of pre-purchased trips or unlimited trips within a fixed time period, such as an unlimited monthly pass.

1.32.15.1.7 (07-22-2020)

Acronyms

  1. The following chart contains acronyms that are used throughout this IRM:

    ACRONYMS DESCRIPTION
    BFC Beckley Finance Center
    DOT Department of Transportation
    ITM Integrated Talent Management
    ERC Employee Resource Center
    FMD Fare Media Distributor
    HCO Human Capital Office
    POD Post of Duty
    PTSP Public Transportation Subsidy Program
    SEID Standard Employee Identifier
    TDY Temporary Duty Station
    TIGTA Treasury Inspector General for Tax Administration
1.32.15.1.8 (10-24-2017)

Related Resources

  1. Internal Revenue Bulletin: 2012-24, Electronic Benefits.

  2. The Computer Matching and Privacy Protection Act of 1988, Pub. L. No. 100-03, amended the Privacy Act of 1974 to protect the subjects of Privacy Act records whose records are used in automated matching programs. Before covered computer matches (that may result in adverse action against match subjects) can be conducted, the required Federal Register notice, computer matching agreement, and reports for OMB and Congress must be approved.

  3. Revenue Ruling 99-7, defines a non-temporary work location.

  4. IRS/NTEU Letter of Understanding, dated October 20, 2000, discusses the Servicewide implementation of the PTSP.

  5. IRS Memorandum on Parking Policy, dated July 9, 2002, specifies that appropriated funds are not used for employee parking and that parking is a personal expense, and it reiterates the Government's position to encourage the use of public transportation.

  6. IRS/NTEU Memorandum of Understanding, dated May 5, 2003, discusses the channeling of customer service requests to the Employee Resource Center.

  7. IRS/NTEU Letter of Understanding, dated May 23, 2008, discusses the annual recertification process.

  8. IRS/NTEU Letter of Understanding, dated August 3, 2010, discusses the allowance for details, 90-days or more, and the use of the unlimited transit subsidy to perform "in and around" local travel within the city limits (or area covered by the issued unlimited transit subsidy).

1.32.15.2 (07-22-2020)

Policy and Eligibility

  1. To be eligible to receive an IRS PTSP transit benefit, employees must use mass public transportation to commute between their residence and their permanent POD or detail location of 90 days or more.

  2. The transit benefit is equal to the participant’s actual monthly commuting cost, up to the maximum nontaxable monthly amount allowed by law, regardless of the number of days the public transportation is used. View Publication 15-B, Employer’s Tax Guide to Fringe Benefits for the maximum amount.

  3. To remain eligible in the program, PTSP participants must submit a PTSP Recertification annually to certify their actual commuting cost.

  4. In the event of a furlough or temporary shutdown participants should not purchase a monthly pass, they should only purchase a weekly pass or daily tickets.

  5. Policy - Parameter of an eligible commute:

    1. A commute is regular travel back and forth between the employee’s place of residence and official duty station during a 24-hour period. A place of residence will usually be the employee’s primary home, but may also include a place the employee stays regularly.

    2. It requires that there be no immediate overnight stay between the home and work at a location away from the employee’s originating place of residence.

    3. The complete round-trip between home and work is one that could reasonably be expected to occur on a regular basis, even if it does not, in fact, occur every weekday.

    4. A commute need not occur every day; it may occur as infrequently as one time per period in accordance with the employee’s approved regular work and telework schedule.

    5. A commute is not reasonable if the whole monthly transit benefit would be needed to cover a single one-way trip.

    6. A commute must take place on official business day, defined as Monday through Friday unless otherwise defined by your office or applicable Collective Bargaining Agreement.

    7. Transportation benefits may not be used to commute to an office other than your official post of duty (POD), case related work or for using public transportation to return to your residence for non-work days.

1.32.15.2.1 (07-22-2020)

Employees Covered

  1. The program is open to all eligible IRS and Chief Counsel employees including:

    • Full-time and Part-time employees.

    • Interns on IRS payroll and who have an SEID and official @irs.gov e-mail address.

  2. Participants are not entitled to benefits during the time when they are:

    1. On official business travel, including City-to-City travel where per diem is being paid and/or Local travel is used for in and around travel; case related meeting, NTEU and any other interoffice/site visits.

    2. On a full day of leave or working an Alternated Work Schedule (AWS) and are out on their regularly scheduled day off.

    3. Teleworking for a full day at home.

    4. On jury duty.

    5. Using a government-owned vehicle to commute to work.

    6. Using an IRS-subsidized parking space or IRS-assigned parking permit.

    7. Using a carpool or personal vehicle to commute to and/or from work on a day when you are unable to use mass transportation.

    8. In non-pay status (Furlough, Extended Leave or Leave Without Pay).

    9. Exiting the program or leaving the Service.

    10. On a detail less than 90 days.

  3. If the above requirements are not followed, participants may be withdrawn from the program.

1.32.15.2.2 (10-24-2017)

Individuals Not Covered

  1. The following employees are not eligible for PTSP:

    • Volunteers, including unpaid interns

    • Contractors or contract employees

    • Employees on intermittent work schedules

    • Others not listed on the IRS payroll

1.32.15.2.3 (07-22-2020)

Authorized Modes of Transportation

  1. Acceptable modes of public transportation are: bus, ferry (walk-on only), subway, train, and vanpool who meet program requirements.

  2. Private vanpools are acceptable only if they meet the following criteria:

    1. Any highway vehicle with a seating capacity of at least six adults, not including the driver.

    2. At least 80% of the mileage is for transporting employees between their residence and their permanent POD, non-temporary work location, or detail location.

    3. The number of employees transported is at least 50% of the adult seating capacity of such vehicle, not including the driver. If the van seating capacity is six passengers, the van must operate at 50% capacity on all commutes with at least three passengers on board at all times, plus the driver, after all riders have been picked up.

    4. Vanpool participants who have the TRANServe Card must use the card for vanpool payments. The vanpool driver must setup a Merchant Account with their bank to accept payments from the TRANServe Card.

1.32.15.2.4 (07-22-2020)

Unauthorized Expenses

  1. Parking expenses, whether at a commuter lot or at/or near the workplace, are not recoverable and not considered a transit cost under PTSP.

  2. An IRS-assigned parking permit that is non-subsidized.

  3. Bicycles, scooters and other available green modes of transportation offered by other vendors are not reimbursable.

  4. UBER, LYFT, and other Taxi or on demand type car services are not authorized modes of transportation.

1.32.15.3 (07-22-2020)

Benefit Payment Types

  1. There are three types of subsidy payments for PTSP participants.

    1. The TRANServe Card

    2. Transit voucher are available only for locations that do not accept the TRANServe Card.

    3. Cash Reimbursement on a quarterly basis for vendors who only accept cash.

  2. The type of benefit distributed to the participant depends on the local transit authority’s acceptance of the transit benefit.

    1. TRANServe Cards are funded one month prior to be used for the following months transit cost. For example, the TRANServe Card is funded in January, the funds on the card are to be used for February’s transit cost.

    2. The transit voucher is mailed out quarterly to the FMD.

    3. The Cash reimbursement benefit is equal to the participant’s actual monthly commuting cost, up to the monthly maximum allowed which is excluded from income by law. View Publication 15-BPDF, Employer’s Tax Guide to Fringe Benefits for the maximum amount. Cash reimbursements are provided quarterly after incurring verified out-of-pocket commuting costs. Cash reimbursements are deposited in the participants Electronic Fund Transfer (EFT) account provided by payroll.

1.32.15.3.1 (07-22-2020)

Transit Benefit

  1. Transit benefit cannot be:

    1. Exchanged for cash.

    2. Transferred from one employee to another.

    3. Given, loaned, or sold to others.

  2. Transit benefit cannot be used:

    1. To travel to other offices in the area.

    2. To commute home for non-work days.

    3. For case related travel.

1.32.15.4 (07-22-2020)

Calculating/Adjusting Benefits (Applies Only to Participants Who are Receiving Quarterly Transit Vouchers)

  1. The IRS PTSP transit subsidy benefit is equal to the participant’s actual monthly commuting cost. The maximum transit subsidy amount is determined by Congress each calendar year. View Publication 15-BPDF, Employer’s Tax Guide to Fringe Benefits, for the maximum amount.

  2. Participants receiving an advance of the transit subsidy must estimate their commuting costs for the upcoming quarter to ensure the appropriate benefit amount is received at the quarterly distribution.

  3. Participants are not entitled to benefits for the days they do not use public transportation to commute to and from the assigned workplace. As a result, the benefits should be adjusted accordingly.

  4. Ideally, estimates should be as accurate as possible to avoid any benefit overpayment or underpayment.

  5. If the benefit was overestimated, the balance must be returned. There are three ways to return excess transit subsidy:

    1. Return unused transit passes with Form 11664-G, PTSP Return of Fare Media, to the PTSP Analyst listed on the form.

    2. Request less transit subsidy at the next distribution.

    3. Send a personal check or money order payable to Internal Revenue Service. The payment should be sent to the PTSP Analyst listed on Form 11664-G. A Document Transmittal Form 3210 should be attached. The subject matter should be addressed as: “To Reimburse the IRS Account for Public Transportation Subsidy.”

1.32.15.5 (07-22-2020)

TRANServe Website

  1. IRS employees were transitioned to the TRANServe website in February of 2018. All new and/or current participants are required to complete all actions related to their PTSP benefits through the TRANServe website. To complete an action on the TRANServe website participants must be a registered user with a valid IRS e-mail address.

  2. The TRANServe website is accessible through the IRS network, personal computer, tablet or smartphone with and internet connection.

  3. All PTSP actions require the approval of both the participant’s manager of record, PTSP Office Administrator, and the DOT. The participants manager of record must be registered on the TRANServe website, in order for the participants to select them as the first level approver. Managers have 15 business days to review and approve or disapprove requests. It’s the participants responsibility to ensure their manager is taking timely action.

  4. All TRANServe applications have a comments section for participants to include important information regarding their benefit. For example, vanpool riders must list the name of the driver and all other passengers in the comments section. Or, if you need to have your TRANServe Card mailed to a different address other than the field requiring your physical home address, enter it in the comments section.

1.32.15.6 (07-22-2020)

Application Process

  1. All participants must have a SEID number and valid @irs.gov e-mail address to enroll in PTSP.

  2. All new participants must confirm completion of the PTSP Awareness Briefing, 19239 in ITM prior to submitting an enrollment with the TRANServe website.

  3. To apply for PTSP benefits, participants must be registered on the TRANServe website to complete their new transit application on the TRANServe website. The applicant’s manager of record must approve the new transit benefit application on the TRANServe website. Once the employee submits their application, the manager of record will receive an automatic e-mail form the TRANServe Administrator notifying them that there is an application awaiting approval. The effective date for benefits is the date the manager approves an accurate and approved application on the TRANServe website.

  4. The application is routed the PTSP Administrative Office for approval. Once approved by the PTSP Administrative Office, the application is sent to DOT for processing

  5. TRANServe applications are processed by DOT within two (2) business days.

  6. Retroactive subsidies, prior to the effective date, are not authorized.

  7. If PTSP funding is not available at the time of the effective date, the participant may review the guidelines on submitting a PTSP cash reimbursement.

  8. If the applicant’s POD uses/distributes vouchers, the applicant should check with the POC to find out if their subsidy is available.

1.32.15.6.1 (07-22-2020)

Public/Private Vanpool Guidance

  1. All IRS employees in the vanpool, including the alternate, are eligible to collect transit benefits and must follow the same enrollment process on the TRANServe website. The effective date for benefits, is the date the manager approves an accurate and approved application on the TRANServe website.

  2. If the vanpool is not being operated by an IRS employee, each vanpool must designate an IRS employee as the coordinator, who will be responsible for ensuring that the minimum requirements are met monthly. If there is only one IRS employee in the vanpool, they will automatically be considered the IRS coordinator.

  3. Vanpool drivers must set up a merchant bank account with their banks. This is needed to retrieve the funds from the TRANServe Card. Vanpool participants receive their transit benefit via the TRANServe Card.

  4. Vanpool charges must reflect reasonable costs, and rates charged must be the same for all passengers. Rates may be reduced or waived for the designated primary driver. Operating expenses for lease, fuel, or tolls qualify for the benefit; maintenance and cleaning do not qualify.

  5. If the participant’s monthly expenses are less than the maximum, only the actual monthly amount spent is authorized for subsidy.

  6. Participants may only collect transit benefits when actively riding in the vanpool. Vanpool riders may not use the transit benefit to hold a seat in the vanpool in excess of 10 working days per month, while on annual or sick leave.

  7. Participants choosing to commute by vanpool must pay the out-of-pocket cost to hold a seat in a vanpool in cases of extended absences (in excess of 10 working days per month) or days absent from the vanpool due to part-time or telework schedules.

1.32.15.7 (07-22-2020)

Benefit Distribution Process for Vouchers

  1. Transit vouchers are distributed quarterly. Transit vouchers are only available for those areas that do not accept the TRANServe Card.

  2. The participant receives notification from the FMD when and where the vouchers can be picked up.

  3. If a participant is unable to pick up their transit subsidy, they can designate a co-worker to pick up the subsidy on their behalf. Form 11664-E, PTSP Authorization for Third Party Pick-up, must be completely filled out and signed by the participant.

  4. Participants can only pick up the transit benefit at their assigned POD.

  5. The FMD and the PTSP Office does not maintain an inventory of undesignated transit vouchers.

1.32.15.7.1 (07-22-2020)

Distribution of Transit Subsidy

  1. The transit benefit is funded and/or distributed in advance.

    1. TRANServe Cards are funded on the 10th of the month for the upcoming month.

    2. Transit vouchers are mailed to the FMD the month before the upcoming quarter.

    3. Transit vouchers are only available for those areas that do not accept TRANServe Card.

  2. TRANServe Cards (original and replacements) will be mailed to the participant's home address as stated on their TRANServe application. If the mailing address is listed as the participant's POD location, the TRANServe Card will be delivered directly to the participant by the mailroom.

  3. When picking up vouchers, participants must:

    1. Present their IRS badge for identification.

    2. Sign and date Form 11664-F, PTSP Signature Sheet for Up-front Monthly/Quarterly Distribution, indicating receipt and acceptance of the transit voucher.

    3. Verify the transit voucher amount collected is correct for the quarter.

  4. Participants must safeguard their TRANServe Card and/or transit voucher as it becomes their property and responsibility upon receipt.

    1. To avoid damage to the TRANServe Card, keep magnets away from the magnetic strip. Do not staple, fold, or mutilate the transit voucher.

    2. The transit voucher with the oldest date must be used first, preventing expired subsidy.

  5. If your TRANServe Card is lost, stolen or damaged you must notify US Bank Customer Service to initiate the replacement process at 1-888-994-6722 or 711 for the hearing impaired. A replacement card will be issued, and the balance of your unused available credit will transfer to the new TRANServe Card.

  6. Transit vouchers:

    1. Cannot be replaced or refunded if lost or stolen.

    2. If damaged or expired, contact the local transit authority, as they might accept it. If the transit voucher isn't accepted by the transit authority, please return it using Form 11664-G, PTSP Participant Return of Fare Media. Participants must include Form 3210, Document Transmittal, for an acknowledgement of receipt of their return fare media.

1.32.15.7.2 (07-22-2020)

Cash Reimbursement Eligibility

  1. Cash reimbursements are only available when an employee is enrolled in PTSP with an accurate and approved enrollment application. The most recent date the manager approves the enrollment is the effective date. Employees will be referred to as participants on their effective date. Eligible participants must submit the PTSP Cash Reimbursement Certification on the Cash Reimbursement SharePoint Site for reimbursement of actual expenses incurred in the previous quarter. Employees are not reimbursed from their Enter on Duty (EOD) date. Retroactive subsidies, prior to the effective date, are not authorized.

  2. Cash Reimbursements may be available when:

    1. New Hires who have enrolled in the program and are waiting for their TRANServe Cards.

    2. The transit authority only accepts cash and doesn’t accept paper vouchers or credit cards.

    3. Seasonal participants return to work and the funds are not available on the TRANServe Card. (Participants must use the card upon their return to work. They should not purchase a monthly pass prior to their return and expect reimbursement when funds are available on their TRANServe Cards).

    4. Receipts are required when they are available from the vendor.

  3. Cash Reimbursements will not be issued for:

    1. Participants who fail to use their benefits in any given month.

    2. Lost or stolen TRANServe Cards.

    3. Participants who transfer funds to their local transit cards - Clipper, Breeze, SmarTrip, Ventra, etc, - or have malfunctions to their local transit cards. Participants will need to resolve the issue with their local transit authority.

    4. Participants who fail to initiate a timely increase to their benefits through the TRANServe website.

    5. Funds available on the TRANServe Card or if a voucher is available.

    6. Did not pick up transit voucher at the scheduled distribution and/or did not complete Form 11664-E, PTSP Authorization for Third Party Pickup.


    Public Law 103-172 states that cash can only be issued when fare media is not readily available.

  4. Participants must submit a cash reimbursement request through the Cash Reimbursement SharePoint Website within 30 days after the end of the quarter. The cash reimbursement request requires the managers approval along with receipts or completion of the transportation log.

  5. The PTSP Administrative Office will review all cash reimbursement requests. The request must be accurate, complete and include receipts and/or transportation log. Reviewed, approved and processed cash reimbursement request will be paid via direct deposit based on the participants (EFT) data on record.

1.32.15.7.3 (07-22-2020)

Annual Recertification

  1. PTSP Participants are required to recertify their PTSP benefits annually by submitting an electronic recertification through the TRANServe website. PTSP Annual Recertification is based on your enrollment or last recertification date.

  2. Participants will receive an e-mail notification informing them of the upcoming expiration date of their PTSP recertification and the requirements to submit a new recertification timely.

  3. Provisions must be made for participants by their manager of record who do not have access to a computer.

  4. If a participant fails to complete their PTSP Annual Recertification (i.e., a complete PTSP Annual Recertification includes the certification of the participant, managerial approval, and PTSP Administrator approval), they will be withdrawn from the program. The withdrawn individual can re-enroll in the program again at any time. Cash reimbursements are not authorized for any out of pocket expenses due to failure to recertify timely.

  5. The PTSP Administrative Office will review all PTSP Annual Recertifications for accuracy and return (i.e., disapprove) any recertifications with; inaccurate information, overstated travel cost (i.e., not the most cost-effective method of transportation) and potential inappropriate use of the program.

  6. Managers must approve or disapprove, the Annual PTSP Recertification within 15 business days. Unapproved recertifications are not authorized for a cash reimbursement. It is the participants responsibility to ensure their recertification is approved.

1.32.15.8 (07-22-2020)

Separated, Furloughed, Extended Leave and/or Non-Work Status Employees

  1. Employees who participate in PTSP and who are separating from the Service, must complete the withdrawal request and have their manager approve the request timely within 15 business days on the TRANServe website prior to leaving the Service. If the employee is not able to or has already left the Service, it is the manager’s responsibility to request that they be withdrawn by submitting and OS GetServices ticket for PTSP Questions and Answers.

  2. Employees who participate in PTSP who are separating from the Service, must return or destroy their TRANServe Card, return transit vouchers or any pro-rated portion of benefit received in advance using Form 11664-G, PTSP Participant Return of Fare Media to the PTSP Office.

  3. Employees who participate in PTSP and are furloughed, placed on extended leave, or Non-Work Status (NWS) are automatically withdrawn and must recertify their PTSP benefits upon return to service in order for benefits to be restored.

  4. Employees who have separated from the Service may be subject to a random review of their benefit usage to ensure no funds were used after leaving the Service. Any misused funds may be subject to collection from BFC.

1.32.15.8.1 (07-22-2020)

Withdrawing from the Program

  1. Participants who no longer want to be enrolled in the program must submit a withdrawal request through the TRANServe website.

  2. Participants who do not have access to an IRS computer can use the following steps to withdraw:

    • Use a personal computer, tablet or smartphone to log into the TRANServe website to submit a Withdrawal request.

    • Contact the ERC to have an OS GetServices ticket opened for PTSP Questions & Assistance.

    • Request their manager open an OS GetServices ticket for PTSP Questions & Assistance.

  3. Your manager must approve the withdrawal request within 15 business days. If you withdraw from the program you must return or destroy the TRANServe Card, return the transit vouchers or any unused portion of the benefits received in advance using Form 11664-G, PTSP Participant Return of Fare Media.

  4. Any benefits loaded to a local transit card (ex. Clipper, Breeze, SmarTrip, Ventra Keycard, etc.) must be returned by check or money order to the IRS. The check/money order must be made out to the Internal Revenue Service, along with a completed Form 11664-G, PTSP Return of Fare Media. The form and check/money order should be mailed to the PTSP Office. Local transit cards should not be returned as they are not a form of repayment for unused funds, only a check or money order for their balance may be returned.

  5. Participants who have not used their PTSP benefits for a minimum of six months will be automatically withdrawn from the system by DOT.

1.32.15.9 (07-22-2020)

PTSP Manual Forms

  1. Form 11664 - D - PTSP Cash Reimbursement Certification - This form may only be utilized when the Cash Reimbursement SharePoint website is unavailable. Any forms submitted while the Cash Reimbursement SharePoint website is available will not be accepted. The form is submitted by participants at the end of the quarter in those instances when the transit benefit is not accepted or available. Cash reimbursements are not authorized for participants who did not use the funds from the TRANServe Card or failed to complete their annual recertification of benefits timely. Any approved cash reimbursement forms will have an electronic payment sent to their current EFT information.

  2. Form 11664 - E - PTSP Authorization for Third Party Pick-Up - The form is prepared and signed by the participant and given to the designated co-worker authorizing them to pick up their transit subsidy on their behalf.

  3. Form 11664-F - PTSP Signature Sheet for Up-Front Monthly/Quarterly Distribution - The FMD will present this form to participants at the transit benefit distribution. Participants sign and date the form indicating receipt and acceptance of the transit voucher.

  4. Form 11664-G - PTSP Participant Return of Fare Media - The form is submitted when an employee withdraws from the program, separates from the Service, or has expired or damaged transit subsidy. Participants should not write void or destroy the transit subsidy. The form is also used if the participant has received more transit subsidy than entitled. The participant should send the form along with a check or money order to the PTSP Office.

  5. Form 11664- W - PTSP Transit Expense Worksheet - A worksheet used to assist participants in calculating their monthly commuting costs accurately.

1.32.15.10 (07-22-2020)

SmartBenefits

  1. Participants using Washington Metro Area Transit Authority's (WMATA) metro rail and/or bus system are required to purchase a SmarTrip card. You can purchase one by mail, online or at Metro's sales offices and area transit stores. SmarTrip cards must be registered with Metro at the time of purchase by telephone at 1-888-762-7874 or on-line at www.smartrip.com.

  2. SmarTrip cards must be registered to match the name in Discovery Directory on the IRS Source.

  3. The SmarTrip card must be registered prior to submitting or including the SmarTrip card number on a TRANServe application. The TRANServe application only requires number from the SmarTrip card. Failure to include any non-numeric characters will result in a disapproved application from the DOT and may cause a delay in benefits.

  4. Information pertaining to the use or functionality of the SmarTrip card may be found on the WMATA.com website.

  5. Unused SmartBenefits are returned to DOT at the end of each month.

  6. Lost, stolen, damaged or malfunctioning SmarTrip cards that have been registered, can be replaced without losing any of the fare value by contacting Metro at 1-888-762-7874. The PTSP Office cannot replace the funds or assist with the replacement of the SmarTrip card. Metro will transfer the balance to the new SmarTrip card and deduct the cost of a new card from your personal purse and mail it to you. Ensure the new card is registered and then complete and Address/SmarTrip card change through the TRANServe website to update the SmarTrip card number to match the new number.

  7. Participants should not use their SmarTrip cards with the PTSP transit benefit for personal use at any time.

  8. Senior citizens (65 and older) and persons with disabilities must have a valid WMATA Senior/Disabled ID card in order to receive the reduced fare offered under the senior/disabled SmarTrip guidelines.

1.32.15.11 (07-22-2020)

Details

  1. Employees on detail assignments may qualify for the IRS PTSP program.

    1. Detail must be at least 90-days or more in order to be eligible. Any detail for less than 90-days is not eligible for PTSP benefits.

    2. Employees who are already enrolled in PTSP and are detailed for more than 90-days may update their current benefits to reflect any changes to the benefit amount needed. If the detail is less than 90-days and the cost to commute remains the same no change is needed. If the cost of your commute increases for a detail of less than 90 days, the difference in cost is the employee’s responsibility and not eligible for additional funding.

    3. Employees who are not already enrolled in PTSP may enroll if the detail is for 90-days or more. If the detail is less than 90-days, the employee may not enroll in PTSP.

1.32.15.12 (07-22-2020)

Unlimited Pass

  1. Participants in PTSP are not authorized to use the PTSP benefit for local in-and-around travel (i.e., case related meetings, site visits, union stewards., etc.). Local travel must be claimed via the ConcurGov program as a local travel authorization/voucher.

  2. A monthly or unlimited type pass may not be the most cost-effective/efficient mode of transportation for regular commute between residence and official POD based on work schedule. Local travel should not be considered when purchasing PTSP benefits and/or as part of your monthly commute. Purchasing these types of passes for use outside of commuting between residence and official POD is not authorized.

  3. Participants cannot use PTSP benefits and file a local travel authorization/voucher for the same expenses.

1.32.15.13 (07-22-2020)

TRANServe Card

  1. In partnership with DOT, TRANServe is a program to deliver transit benefits to participants through a branded federal credit card, called the TRANServe Card. The TRANServe Card provides a green, cost-efficient, all electronic method for employees to receive their monthly transit benefit.

  2. TRANServe Cards are accepted for the majority of transit providers throughout the United States.

  3. The TRANServe Card must be activated upon receipt by contacting US Bank at the customer service number on the back of the card (1-888-994-6722 or 711 for hearing impaired). The Interactive Voice Response (IVR) system will guide the cardholder through the automated processed.

  4. Participants cannot receive a cash reimbursement for unused funds available on the TRANServe Card.

  5. The TRANServe Card must be returned to the participants manager of record when furloughed, on approved extended leave, separating from the Service or withdrawing.

  6. Management is responsible for the safekeeping of the card during this time and must return the TRANServe Card to the furloughed employee upon their first day back to work status.

  7. Participant is responsible for recertifying their PTSP benefits through the TRANServe website upon return to work in order for benefits to be restored.

  8. Each time you use your TRANServe Card you certify:

    1. I am employed by the federal government.

    2. I am eligible for a public transportation fare benefit.

    3. I will only use the transit benefit for my daily commute to and from my residence and official POD.

    4. I will not use the benefit for local visits to other offices.

    5. I will not give, sell or transfer my transit benefit to anyone else.

    6. I will not use the government-provided transit benefit in excess of the statutory limit.

    7. I will not include parking fees in the computation of the daily, weekly or monthly commuting cost.

  9. Participants who move to a new POD within IRS and currently have a TRANServe Card should keep the card and take it to their new POD. The card is still active and loaded with funds which can be used towards their new commuting cost. Upon arrival at the new POD, participants must complete an update through the TRANServe website and include pertinent information in the comments section.

  10. Participants who transfer to another agency must withdraw from the program and either return the TRANServe Card using Form 11664-G PTSP Participant Return of Fare Media or destroy the card. If the participant does not withdraw from the IRS PTSP, they will not be able to enroll with another agency.

1.32.15.14 (07-22-2020)

Home Delivery of TRANServe Card

  1. The TRANServe Cards are mailed by the contracted bank to the home address on the participants PTSP application unless otherwise directed by the participant.

1.32.15.15 (07-22-2020)

Senior Passes

  1. The PTSP Administrative Office encourages seniors to take advantage of senior and/or Medicare cardholder discounts. Check with your local transit authority to see if they offer senior discounts. Eligible participants can update their PTSP commuting cost by completing a rate change on the TRANServe website.

1.32.15.16 (07-22-2020)

Teleworking

  1. PTSP participants who telework regularly should abide by the following:

    1. Ensure the transit benefits received match the number of days in the office. Benefits can’t exceed the amount needed. Estimated days per month; Regular Schedule 20-23, AWS 16-20, and Telework 4-8. For example: An employee who only reports to the office 4 days per month as a frequent teleworker would not generally require a monthly transit pass as it would not be the most cost-effective/cost-efficient. Participants may contact their local transit authority for information and/or guidance on the most cost-effective/cost-efficient type of pass for their commute.

    2. Participants who have a rate change should complete the rate change for the upcoming month before the 20th of the month for smartcards and TRANServe Cards on the TRANServe website.

    3. Participants with computer access who need to adjust their commuting cost should submit a rate change on the TRANServe website. The instructions are:

      1. Go to the TRANServe website

      2. Log in

      3. Click on “Transit Application”

      4. Click on “Certify/Enroll”

      5. From drop down box select “Rate Change”

      6. Change the information from your current daily/monthly rates to reflect the new rate

      7. Click “Continue” to submit

    4. All fields on the rate change application should be completed on the TRANServe website, not just the information being updated.