Park it: A guide to parking and ridesharing

While they might not be the most glamorous topics, driving and parking are two activities that most of us do every day.

And things like traffic jams, delays, trying to find a parking spot, and paying for the parking spot can all cause stress. And when we’re stressed, we don’t do our jobs as well.

So, what can employers do to help relieve these issues and add an incentive for new and existing employees? Commuter benefits that include parking rideshare options are the answer.

What are commuter benefits?

Commuter benefits are pre-tax benefits that allow employees to set aside tax-free dollars to pay for commuting costs. The result is more take-home pay for the employee and fewer payroll taxes paid by the employer.

Parking benefits

When we think of commuting, we tend to think more about the ride than parking. But time spent circling, looking for a lot, can add up. So can parking fees, tickets, etc.

That’s why in addition to the commuting services, Edenred also offers parking benefits. These benefits can be delivered in a variety of ways:

• Prepaid cards – A true “swipe and go” solution, these prepaid cards are accepted by vendors nationwide.
• Monthly direct pay – Direct monthly payment to parking and vanpool providers.
• Commuter Check for parking vouchers – Vouchers are made payable to the parking provider.
• Parking cash reimbursement – Reimbursement for one-off parking needs.
• SpotHero – Easily book affordable parking at over 5,000 garages, lots, and valets, and pay with a prepaid card.

Edenred and SpotHero

To provide a top-notch benefits experience, Edenred has partnered with SpotHero to provide parking benefits.

How SpotHero works:

• Find parking – Find and compare prices at thousands of lots and garages across North America.
• Pay and reserve – Pay with fast guest checkout and get a prepaid parking pass/reservation instantly via email. The SpotHero Parking Guarantee backs all reservations.
• Arrive and park – Follow the instructions on your pass when you arrive. Typically, you’ll scan a QR code, show the attendant your reservation, or add your license plate number.

Ridesharing

Ridesharing allows employees to share a ride with others traveling in the same direction. Not only does it save you money on gas and parking fees, but it also helps reduce traffic congestion and air pollution. You can easily find ridesharing services wherever you get your apps.

Ridesharing options:

• Vanpools – Like carpools, they carry between 5-15 people who commute to and from work together in a van or SUV.
• Bike sharing – With bike sharing, you can rent a bike from one location, return it to another, and pay for it with your prepaid card.
• e-Scooter Sharing – Environmentally friendly and affordable, e-scooter a is a great way to get to work for the urban commuter. You can pay for e-scooter sharing with your prepaid card.

How Edenred can help

Helping your team ease the stress of commuting and finding a parking spot is just one of the small ways you can support your employees and strengthen your benefits portfolio. Schedule a meeting with us today to learn more.