IRS Delays Effective Date Of Guidance On Use Of Smartcards, Debit Cards For Transportation Benefits.

Notice 2007-76

The purpose of this notice is to delay the effective date of Revenue Ruling 2006-57, 2006-47 I.R.B. 911. Revenue Ruling 2006-57 provides guidance to employers on the use of smartcards, debit or credit cards, or other electronic media to provide qualified transportation fringes under Internal Revenue Code §§ 132(a)(5) and 132(f). Treasury and the IRS have become aware that certain transit systems may need additional time to modify their technology and make it compatible with the requirements for vouchers set forth in Revenue Ruling 2006-57. Therefore, the ruling's effective date, which was set for January 1, 2008, is delayed to January 1, 2009. Nevertheless, employers and employees may rely on Revenue Ruling 2006-57 with respect to transactions occurring prior to January 1, 2009. The principal author of this notice is Michael R. Skutley of the Office of Associate Chief Counsel (Tax Exempt & Government Entities). For further information regarding this notice, contact Mr. Skutley at (202) 622-6040 (not a toll-free call).