Commuter Expense Reimbursement Account

Employees who want to participate in a CERA must enroll for it each year. The annual election is divided by the number of payroll cycles during the plan year to determine a per pay period amount. This amount is reduced from the employee’s income prior to taxes.

When commuter expenses occur, employees submit a completed claim form along with the appropriate documentation required for reimbursement. Employees cannot be reimbursed more than the balance in their account. Claims are processed within 2-3 business days. Members are issued a check or they may have their reimbursement deposited into their bank account.

Do funds roll over at the end of the year?

The plan may allow remaining funds to roll over to the next year. If the plan does not allow funds to roll over, employees have a run-out period to request reimbursement only for commuter expenses from the plan year. Any funds remaining in the account at the end of the run-out period will be returned to the employer.