Train commuting may seem like a fixed-cost routine, but if you ride regularly, you could be leaving rewards on the table. Loyalty and commuter benefits programs are designed to give back to riders—through points, perks, or tax savings. Whether you’re a daily Amtrak passenger or use a regional rail system, knowing how to stack rewards with your trips can lead to real savings. Here’s a breakdown of top commuter reward programs and how to make the most of them.

Amtrak Guest Rewards: Points for Every Mile

For intercity rail travelers, Amtrak Guest Rewards is one of the most valuable programs. You earn points based on fare price, with bonuses available for Business and First Class seating, as well as purchases made with Amtrak-affiliated credit cards. Points can be redeemed for free trips, upgrades, or hotel and car rental discounts.

How to maximize:

• Sign up for free and start earning immediately

• Link your account to an Amtrak credit card to boost points

• Look for limited-time promotions and partner bonuses

Commuter Tax Benefits

For workers commuting via local or regional rail, some programs allow you to set aside pre-tax dollars for transit expenses. Offered through many employers, this benefit reduces taxable income while covering monthly train passes or fare cards.

Check if your employer participates and opt in through your HR department. The IRS caps change annually, so stay updated on current thresholds to maximize your benefit.

Regional Rail Programs and City Transit Rewards

Cities and metro areas also run rail-specific loyalty or fare bonus systems. Here are a few to explore:

• NJ TRANSIT Rewards – Riders earn discounts with partner retailers

• Metra Mobile App – Offers a digital pass system and occasional rider promotions

• BART Perks – Collect points for each ride, redeemable in cash drawings

• MBTA CharlieCard – Includes stored-value bonuses and discounts

Always check your transit authority’s site to see if they offer fare capping, ride bonuses, or integration with digital wallets.

Layering Cashback Apps with Loyalty Programs

In addition to formal transit rewards, you can layer savings using third-party cashback platforms. Apps like Rakuten and Ibotta offer cashback when you purchase from affiliated merchants located near or inside major train stations.

For example:

• Use Ibotta at retailers like Walgreens or CVS before boarding

• Shop online through Rakuten at travel gear stores or office supply chains

• Consider buying gift cards through platforms like Fluz (see next post for full breakdown)

While each transaction may feel small, consistent usage adds up over time, especially when paired with tax benefits or loyalty points.

The Takeaway: Ride Smart, Earn More

From coast to coast, commuter rewards are expanding. Between national programs like Amtrak Guest Rewards, employer-offered tax perks, and regional rail bonuses, there’s no shortage of ways to benefit from your daily ride. The key is stacking multiple programs to unlock the best combination of savings and perks.

Make your commute work for you—one ride at a time.