This benefit originally ran through a Jawnt Pass card with direct payment. It's now moved to a reimbursement model for the remainder of 2026 - pay out of pocket, then submit for reimbursement through Jawnt. Reimbursement submission is expected to be available in Jawnt by August, and receipts will be reviewed in January 2027.
How It Works
Harvard's bicycle commuter benefit will operate on a reimbursement basis for the remainder of 2026. Pay for eligible bike commuting expenses with a personal card (or cash), then submit a reimbursement request through Jawnt - up to $360 per calendar year.
If you already used a Jawnt Pass debit card for bike-related purchases and/or reimbursements prior to this change: that's now turned off, so your card will no longer be loaded with the $30/month and won't work for new purchases, but any balance already on it will be available as a reimbursement. Paying for bike expenses directly through your Jawnt Pass card will be available again in 2027 — for now, save your receipts to submit through the reimbursement process described above.
Employee eligibility
Eligible employees can receive $30/month (up to $360/year) for biking expenses, when they have not enrolled in parking or transit benefits. For additional questions about eligibility, please see Harvard's site here.
Bike Reimbursement Timeline
Harvard will send out communications once you are able to begin submitting reimbursements. This is expected soon, with functionality estimated to be available in August. All 2026 receipts will then be reviewed together in January 2027 as part of an annual reconciliation, so hold onto your receipts in the meantime. Approved receipts will be reimbursed through payroll.
Eligible expenses
Bicycle purchase — new or used bicycles, including e-bikes, from retailers or private sellers
Maintenance, improvements, and accessories — parts, repair services, roadside assistance (e.g., NEMO), racks, locks, panniers, trailers, and bike-specific apparel (reflective gear, gloves, shoes, cycling shorts)
Parking and storage — daily to annual fees
Safety gear — helmets, lights, bells, reflectors
Bluebikes membership — daily, monthly, or annual, including e-bike usage
Not eligible: scooters or non-bicycle devices, indoor/exercise bikes, general-use items (coats, backpacks), ground or vehicle-mounted storage racks, or expenses incurred by someone other than the participant.
Questions? Contact [email protected].
