» Rideshare Incentives

You are eligible to participate in the Orange County Transportation Authority (OCTA) U-Pass program if you are a Chapman commuter student or a Chapman staff/faculty member.* Chapman University will provide a subsidy covering the first $30 of your monthly bus fares. To apply, please complete the appropriate form below, which will identify your selected method of payment. An initial deposit of $30 is required for students, and an initial deposit of $45 is required for staff/faculty, who have the option of pre-tax payroll deductions as well.

Once your request form and payment are complete, send your completed form and receipt (if applicable) to rideshare@chapman.edu. You will then be issued a U-Pass card, which you will use each time you board the bus.

Students

Chapman University will provide a subsidy covering the first $30 of your monthly fares. The most you will be required to pay per month is $15, as the maximum monthly charge for students is $45. You are required to make an initial deposit of $30 and maintain a minimum balance of $30 in your account each month as a cushion for your share of the fares. As we receive your ride details from OCTA, we will send you an update on your account balance. If your balance falls short of $30, we will notify you so you can make a deposit to bring your balance back up to $30. Your U-Pass card will be deactivated if your balance reaches $0.00; however, you may obtain a new U-Pass card by paying a minimum of $30. Here is the Student U-Pass Request Form.

There are two ways for students to pay their deposit and monthly fees (as applicable):

1. Online via the E-Commerce portal
2. In-person at the cashier’s office in the Bhathal Student Services Center

Faculty/Staff

Chapman University will provide a subsidy covering the first $30 of your monthly fares. The most you will be required to pay per month is $39, as the maximum in monthly fares for staff/faculty is $69. You are required to make an initial deposit of $45 and maintain a minimum balance of $45 in your account each month as a cushion for your share of the fares. You may elect to pay in cash or have your payments deducted from your paycheck on a pre-tax basis. As we receive your ride details from OCTA, an email will be sent to you indicating the amount of your next pre-tax payroll deduction (or the amount you must deposit), which will bring your account balance back up to $45. Your U-Pass card will be deactivated if your balance reaches $0.00; however, you may obtain a new U-Pass card by paying the minimum of $45. Here is the Staff / Faculty OCTA U-Pass Request Form.

Please visit OCTA for detailed information about routes and schedules.

*Currently, we are not restricted as to the number of participants in this program, but limits may be introduced at a later date.

OCTA U-Pass Riders will only have to submit a request form once to set up their account and for processing.

Where do I pick up my OCTA U-Pass Card?

Once an individual submits their form and deposit to the Rideshare Team, OCTA U-Pass riders can pick it up at the Office of Human Resources located in DeMille 140 or request it be mailed.

How soon can I use my OCTA U-Pass Card?

As soon as the OCTA U-Pass rider retrieves their card, it is activated and ready for use.

What do I do if I lose my OCTA U-Pass Card?

Email rideshare@chapman.edu immediately to deactivate the card. The Rideshare Team will issue another card, free of charge.

Does my OCTA U-Pass Card expire?

The U-Pass card does not expire; the Rideshare Team will receive and provide new cards, free of charge, ensuring balances are transferred.

Is there a digital OCTA U-Pass Card available?

No.

What will happen to my balance if my fares are more than the monthly subsidy?

If riders accrue charges that surpass the monthly $30 subsidy, funds will be taken from the rider’s balance to cover any remaining dues. In this case, riders will be notified to replenish funds taken from the balance to the required amount ($30 for students, $45 for staff and faculty).

For example, if a student OCTA U-Pass rider accrued $40 worth of OCTA fares, Chapman University will subsidize $30, meaning the rider is responsible for the remaining $10 to replenish their account.  

How will I know if my balance is below the required amount?

The Rideshare Team will provide a summary of the OCTA fares to the rider, notifying them if they have surpassed the monthly subsidy or not. If an OCTA rider does not utilize more than the monthly subsidy, no action is required.

Where can I make a payment to replenish my accounts?

Payments to replenish funds into a rider’s balance can be made through the Chapman E-Commerce Portal; Chapman staff and faculty members also have the option of pre-tax deductions.

Will I have to make a payment every month?

OCTA U-Pass riders will only have to make a payment if their fares surpass the monthly subsidy; the Rideshare Team will email riders if they must pay.

What happens if I forget to pay an outstanding balance?

If a rider forgets to pay any outstanding balance, they will begin to accrue a fee. If a rider’s balance falls to $0, the Rideshare Team will deactivate the card. Riders will be able to request another U-Pass card after submitting another deposit.

When will my deposit be refunded to me?

A rider's deposit will be refunded to them once they decide they will no longer participate in the OCTA U-Pass program or if they are leaving Chapman University. If a rider is leaving the University, they must notify the Rideshare Team to ensure the deposit can be refunded and that the U-Pass card will be deactivated.

What are the benefits of paying via a pre-tax deduction?

The pre-tax deduction option is for Chapman faculty and staff.  It is taken out of the paycheck before taxes, thus lowering taxable income. For example, if an OCTA U-Pass rider's monthly fares were $50, the rider’s $20 payroll deduction (U-Pass fares of $50 minus $30 subsidy from Chapman University) would not be taxed.

Are students or student employees eligible for the pre-tax deduction?

Students and student employees do not qualify.

Can I have both OCTA U-Pass and the Metrolink Monthly Pass?

Yes, Chapman University riders can have access to both the OCTA U-Pass and a Metrolink Monthly Pass. If the corresponding forms and payments are submitted, riders can have access to both services.

The Metrolink Corporate Quick Card (CQC) Program provides Chapman University staff, faculty, and students with the option to purchase subsidized Metrolink pass(es). The following two products are now available to purchase:

Metrolink Monthly Pass

The Monthly Pass is recommended for frequent commuters with multiple roundtrips throughout the month for which it is requested. There is a flat $100 subsidy applied towards the pass’ cost for all Chapman staff, faculty, and students, regardless of how far Panthers are traveling.

Metrolink 5 Day-Flex Pass*

The 5-Day Flex Pass is Metrolink’s newest product. It was designed for riders who require a more flexible and affordable commuting option and do not commute to campus every day. This pass is a discounted bundle of five roundtrip tickets that can be used anytime throughout the requested month. All Chapman community members are eligible to receive a $30 subsidy per 5-Day Flex Pass, with a maximum of two (a total monthly subsidy of $60). If a rider believes they require more than two Flex Passes, the Chapman Rideshare Team recommends utilizing the Monthly Pass.

Chapman staff, faculty, and students can request a Metrolink Monthly or Flex Pass(es) by completing and submitting the Metrolink Pass Request Form to rideshare@chapman.edu.

Staff and faculty members may opt to pay for the pass(es) via pre-tax payroll deduction. Students, and those staff and faculty who do not wish to exercise the pre-tax deduction, may purchase the pass(es) via the Chapman E-Commerce portal or in-person at the Cashier’s Office located in the Bhathal Student Services Center.

For more detailed information about routes, stations, and schedules, please visit Metrolink or download the Metrolink app.

*The Metrolink 5-Day Flex Pass is only available through Metrolink Mobile App. To set up a Metrolink account with your Chapman email through the app, follow these steps.

Benefits & Incentives:

I have the option of paying pre-tax or cash, what is the difference?

The pre-tax deduction option is for Chapman faculty and staff.  It is taken out of the paycheck before taxes, thus lowering taxable income. For example, if the cost of a monthly pass were $217, the rider’s $117 payroll deduction (ticket price of $217 minus $100 subsidy from Chapman University) would not be taxed.

The pre-tax deduction is limited to passes up to $270 (rider payments up to $170 after the subsidy). Any dollar amount surpassing that threshold would be taxed. For example, if the ticket were $280, the $180 payment would be taxed at $10, as opposed to $180.

Cash-paying riders would not receive the pre-tax deduction.

Can I use Amtrak with Metrolink?

Riders can use Amtrak in a limited capacity that falls in line with Metrolink’s Rail 2 Rail program. Review the Rail 2 Rail information page before deciding to use Amtrak. Chapman University does not subsidize Amtrak tickets.

Can I have both OCTA U-Pass and the Metrolink Monthly Pass?

Yes, Chapman University riders can have access to both the OCTA U-Pass and a Metrolink Monthly Pass. If the corresponding forms and payments are submitted, riders can have access to both services.

Will Chapman University subsidize a different type of pass outside the Monthly or 5-Day Flex Pass?

Chapman University’s Rideshare Program is formatted to subsidize these two Metrolink pass options only; other pass types do not qualify for a subsidy.

How do I qualify for Metrolink student rate pricing?

Staff and faculty enrolled in undergraduate or graduate programs may qualify for student rate pricing. Proof of enrollment is required to qualify and must be submitted with the Metrolink Request Form.

How do I qualify for Metrolink senior rate pricing?

Riders who are 65 or older can receive senior rate pricing. To apply, submit identification documents to verify qualification with the Metrolink Request Form.

If I cannot access the Metrolink Mobile App, is there another way to obtain a ticket?

Chapman University’s Rideshare Program strives to reduce paper ticket printing with virtual passes to support sustainability. However, for riders who do not have a smartphone, riders can receive a physical card to use at Metrolink ticket terminals. Please reach out to the Rideshare Team via rideshare@chapman.edu for more information.

Does Chapman University subsidize the entire cost of a Metrolink pass(es)?

Metrolink passes are only fully subsidized if the pass price is lower than or equals the subsidy amount indicated under the Metrolink tab on the Rideshare page. Amounts outside of the subsidy allocation are the responsibility of the rider via cash payment or pre-tax deduction.

Are students or student employees eligible for the pre-tax deduction?

Neither students nor student employees qualify for the pre-tax deduction.

Person of Contact:

Who can I contact for issues with my Metrolink pass after Human Resources’ business hours?

If there are issues regarding your ticket outside of Human Resources’ business hours, contact Metrolink’s 24-7 service at (866) 640-5190.

Completing the Form:

Where do I submit my forms?

All forms can be submitted to rideshare@chapman.edu or dropped off at the front desk at the Office of Human Resources (DeMille Hall 140, Orange campus).

Do I select Corporate Quick Card (CQC) renewal or request?

When completing the form, new riders should select “CQC Request”; for recurring riders, select “CQC Renewal.”

Do I need to submit a request form monthly?

The Rideshare team processes requests on a monthly cycle, there is an option on the form to automatic monthly renewal.

Where can I find the price of the Metrolink pass I am interested in?

Riders can inquire about their corresponding pass prices through the Metrolink Ticket Finder.

Where can I view routes for beginning and ending Metrolink stations?

Riders can find local stations near them on the Metrolink website.

When are Metrolink request form submissions due?

Request forms are due by the 18^th of the month prior to the start of the requested activation month. For example, a request for February would be due on January 18^th.

Additional Information:

If I didn’t use my pass during this month, can it be used in the next month?

Passes purchased through the Rideshare Program are only available for the intended month it was purchased; if a rider is not able to utilize the pass, it will expire after the month ends.  Riders will have to request another pass for the following month.

Will I be refunded if I do not use the pass?

You can receive a refund for an unused pass. If the rider purchased it with cash, submit a receipt to rideshare@chapman.edu for processing. If the rider requested a pre-tax deduction, please email rideshare@chapman.edu to discuss options.

Where can I find the schedule of times to utilize the train?

Riders can find the corresponding train schedule through the Metrolink Mobile App or the Metrolink Schedules Website.

I have heard the train can be delayed; is there somewhere I can check for updates?

For real-time updates regarding delays or any other Metrolink updates, please check the Metrolink X (formerly Twitter) account.

Should I use my personal email when setting up my Metrolink Account?

For tracking purposes, both Metrolink and the Rideshare Program ask riders to utilize their Chapman email address when setting up their account.

When will I be able to activate my ticket?

Riders can activate their passes on the 1^st of the month it was purchased; if the pass(es) is not utilized or activated by the 16^th of that month, it will become void. If the rider is requesting a refund, please refer to the second question in the Additional Information section.

Are there Metrolink Stations near the Chapman campuses?

*Chapman University provides a shuttle service for riders to and from the Irvine Metrolink Station and the Rinker Campus.  For more information, please visit the Campus Shuttle Services website. 

The Regional Guaranteed Ride Home (GRH) program is designed to provide emergency transportation home if an employee who participates in one of Chapman’s public transportation programs experiences an emergency while at work such as illness or unexpected overtime.

You are eligible to participate in the GRH program if you are a Chapman administrator, staff or faculty member, or student employee who is currently participating in a Chapman public transportation program coordinated with OCTA and Metrolink, and you commuted to work using public transportation on the day of the emergency.

Disclaimer:  The program is sponsored and administered jointly by the Los Angeles County Metropolitan Transportation Authority (Metro) and the Orange County Transportation Authority (the agencies), who are responsible for program parameters.  The agencies reserve the right to make program changes or cancellations. The agencies’ GRH program administrator is responsible for authorizing reimbursements under this program. program.

What qualifies as a Guaranteed Ride Home (GRH) program emergency?

Emergencies may vary from an employee having to work late, to a family emergency that requires the employee to return home mid-day. Emergency circumstances that qualify for a reimbursable ride under the GRH Program include:

• Personal illness/emergency
• Unexpected illness/emergency of an immediate family member
• The employee is required to work unscheduled overtime

What does not qualify as a valid GRH program emergency?

• Personal errands 
• Non-emergency appointments/meetings/doctor visits 
• Voluntary overtime 
• Public transportation disruptions or delays for any reason 
• Termination/lay-offs
• Being sent home from work early due to scheduling issues
• A ride to work 
• Business travel 
• Inclement weather 
• Any trip where alternate transportation could be arranged in advance 
• On-the-job injury 
• Early release from work due to loss of power, lighting, or network access at the worksite 
• Being sent home from work early for any reason other than is specified in the rules as a valid GRH emergency.
• Natural disasters, including but not limited to fires, mudslides, flooding, and earthquakes, are excluded as a valid reason for GRH reimbursement

What are valid GRH destinations?

Every emergency is different, and an employee may need to reach a different destination for each unexpected situation. The GRH Program offers flexibility, allowing the employee to choose from a variety of destinations to serve their unique needs. Destinations include:

• Home
• Personal vehicle (if parked at a Park & Ride lot or transit station)
• Medical facility (not related to an on-the-job injury)
• Daycare or school

Interim stops will also be accepted if they are needed to reach the final emergency destination

How do I use the program?

As the employee experiencing the emergency, you choose the most efficient means to get to where you need to go during a valid emergency.

• You can choose to take a taxi, a transportation network company, a carsharing company, or use transit or a rental car to get to your emergency destination.
• You are responsible for paying up-front for the selected ride, and submitting a receipt from the service provider as well as a completed GRH Reimbursement Claim Form to rideshare@chapman.edu.
• Chapman’s GRH representative reviews the claim and determines whether it meets the program’s definition of an emergency. If so, the representative submits a claim to the GRH office within 60 days.
• Claims received after 60 days will not be accepted and trip costs incurred become your responsibility.
• Upon approval, the GRH office issues a reimbursement directly to you.

How often can I use GRH?

Each ridesharing employee can use the GRH Program up to two (2) times in a 12-month period which runs July 1 – June 30.

How do I transport my bike or wheelchair? 

You will need to make arrangements with the taxi or rental car company. Many public transit providers offer wheelchair lifts and bike racks.

Will the taxi or rental car have a car seat for my child to meet legal requirements? 

You must make arrangements with the GRH transportation provider.

What happens if I am too ill or upset to drive or take public transit? 

A taxi or ride from a transportation network company (TNC), such as Uber or Lyft, would probably be the best GRH option under these circumstances.

What is a transportation network company (TNC)? 

A TNC is a company that uses an online-enabled platform to connect passengers with drivers using their personal, non-commercial, vehicles. Examples are Lyft, Sidecar, Uber, Wingz, Summon, and Taxi. 

Why do I need a credit card if using a rental car? 

Rental car agencies require you to provide a credit card, and you must comply with their rules if you wish to rent a car.

If I use a rental car, can I return the car near my home? 

Yes, you may. The rental car agency can give you a list of locations near your home. You will only be reimbursed for a one-day rental period and must return the vehicle as required within the rental agency’s contract.

Can I use the rental car for more than one day if I pay the difference? 

No. That would be a separate car rental agreement and it would be at your expense. This program reimburses for a one-way trip from work to home, and to the car rental agency to return the car.

Can I share the taxi or rental car with a fellow employee also needing a ride? 

Yes, as long as the trip is one-way from work to home.

Should I tip the taxi driver with my own money? 

This decision is up to you based on your level of satisfaction with your service provider. The cost of a one-way taxi ride plus a 15% tip is reimbursable and must be documented on the receipt.

Am I supposed to leave any paperwork with the taxi driver? 

No, but please ensure you obtain a receipt for your ride home.

What must I do to ensure that my emergency ride will be reimbursed? 

Only emergency rides that meet the criteria defined as GRH program emergencies can be reimbursed. Please review the criteria in the section “what qualifies as a GRH program emergency” prior to submitting a request for reimbursement.

Can I use the program for another member of my family? Example: If I have to work unexpected overtime and need my child to be picked up from school? 

No.  The GRH program is limited to employees of Chapman University.