TRANSPORTATION INCENTIVE PROGRAM (TIP)
Outside the National Capital Region (ONCR)
The November deadline for TIP program applications is COB November 20, 2009.
The December deadline for TIP program applications is COB December 18, 2009.
Bicycles - The Dept. of Defense (DoD) has not included use of bicycles in the DoD Mass Transit Benefit Program. As such, the DON TIP ONCR has not included use of bicycles in the program.
Max TIP amount $230
All applications MUST BE TYPED, not hand-written. We will no longer be accepting applications that are hand-written, so please advise all new applicants to type their applications. NO EXCEPTIONS will be made. All new applicants must give either an email address or phone number on their applications. New Applications with the $230 are now available. ***Please note that commands are not authorized to restrict the increase to the new $230 benefit cap*** Please be sure to always include the Alphabetical List of Enrollees when faxing new applications.
WHAT IS TIP?
Executive Order 13150 mandates all federal agencies implement a transportation fringe benefit program that offers qualified Federal employees assistance with employee commuting costs incurred through the use of mass transportation and van pools, to be excluded from taxable wages and compensation, not to exceed the maximum level set by law.
The Transportation Incentive Program (TIP) applies to Department of Navy (DON) employees (see eligibility requirements below) to help reduce their daily contribution to traffic congestion and air pollution, as well as expand their commuting alternatives. DON members are currently eligible for reimbursement up to $115.00 per month. Please note that the TIP incentive will be increasing to $230.00 per month beginning March 1, 2009 (parking fees are not included) in specific pre-approved commuter mass transit transportation costs not to exceed actual expenses. TIP is designed to pay for transit costs incurred by personnel in their local commute from residence to permanent duty station. Participants must accurately claim an amount that reflects their usage rate—failure to do so will result in fraudulent certification on the application and is subject to criminal prosecution. This program is a benefit, not an entitlement; thus, there is no retroactive reimbursement for the program back to its inception.