Q. Who is eligible for SmartBenefits?

A. DC government employees who are members of Compensation Unit 1 or 2 or are benefit eligible. 
 
Q. How do I register for SmartBenefits?

A. Eligible employees need to complete and sign the back of the SmartBenefits application and return it to DCHR, Benefits and Retirement Administration, 441 4th Street, NW, Room 340 N.

Q. I participated in Wage Works. Can’t you use my Wage Works information?

A. SmartBenefits is a new Metro benefit for eligible DC government employees. A registration application must be completed and signed in order to take advantage of the benefit. 

Q. Once I turn in my application when will I receive my SmartBenefits?

A. If your form is received before the 15th of the month, the benefit will begin the first day of the following month. (Example: Application received on September 6, the employee’s benefit will begin on October 1). If your form is submitted after the 15th of the month, the benefit will begin the first day of the second month after the application is received. (Example: Application received on September 17, the employee’s benefit will begin in November, not October).

Q. How will I receive the Smart Benefit?

A. To receive the $25 benefit each month, you will need to go to a Metro Farecard/Passes machine between the first and last day of each month.

Q. Do I have to have a SmarTrip ID card?

A.  No. If you have the DC Government Universal Credential with the SmarTrip logo on the back, this will act as your access card for the Metro benefit. If your agency is not currently using the Universal Credential, a SmarTrip card will be issued to you upon completion of the SmartBenefits application.

Q. If I have my own SmarTrip card, can I use that instead of my DC Government Universal Credential?

A. No. If you have a Universal Credential, it must be used in order to receive the benefit.

Q. Can I add money to the Universal Credential or SmarTrip Card?

A. Yes. It is anticipated that the $25 will act as a subsidy to the funds you already use for your daily commute to and from work, so you can easily add value to the card at any Passes/Farecard machine.

Q. Will this benefit affect my taxable income?

A. This benefit is not included as income and will have no bearing on your taxes.