Bicycle Commuter Programs

Programs for eligible employees who choose to bicycle to work include:

 


Bike Commuter Reimbursement Program Overview

This program offers bicycle commuting expenses to qualified faculty, staff, and postdoctoral researchers and fellows for any out-of-pocket eligible expenses up to $240 annually. Unlike a flexible spending account, reimbursement comes directly from the University and is considered taxable income by the Internal Revenue Service.

Expense categories that the University will reimburse are bike purchases; maintenance, improvements, and bike accessories; parking and commercial storage costs; and safety gear. Purchases such as membership and program fees along with clothing and apparel are not considered allowable expenses.

Funding for this program is provided by the Division of Business Services to support the University’s Climate Action Plan.

 

Bike riders

To Apply Follow the Steps Below


Step 1

Confirm Your Eligibility

Participants must be full-time, benefits-eligible faculty or staff, or Postdoctoral Researchers and Fellows, commute by bicycle to and from Penn greater than 50% of the time in a qualified bike commuting month, and not participate in any of Penn’s other commuter transit or parking programs.

Step 2

Register Your Bike

You must register your bike with Penn's Division of Public Safety

Register here
Step 3

Submit Receipts for Reimbursement

Reimbursements for Tax Year 2024 are now closed. The reimbursement form for tax year 2025 purchases will be available on January 1, 2026, with a submission period that lasts through February 28, 2026. 

Bike commuters are encouraged to access Concur, the University’s expense management system, at any time throughout this tax year to upload their receipts of eligible expenses. Click here for help.

 

 

Bike rider

Register Your Bike with Penn Police

By registering your property, your registration sticker will serve as a visual deterrent and increase the chances of recovery should your bike ever be lost or stolen. Registration sticker(s) must be picked up at Division of Public Safety, 4040 Chestnut St.

Faculty and Staff: participants in the Bike Commuter Expense Reimbursement Program MUST register their bikes to receive the benefit.