Are high commuting costs and gas prices concerning you? You're not alone. Nearly three-quarters of Americans are experiencing some financial hardship and more than four in 10 are experiencing significant financial hardship because of rising gas prices, according to a recent Associated Press poll.

And when you consider that the average family is spending $110 more per month on gas than they were six months ago, that statistic makes a lot of sense.

As benefit experts, we know all about how commuter benefits can be used to help mitigate rising transportation costs. My fear is that the average consumer (i.e. many of your colleagues) has no idea how these benefits can be used because, like with other pre-tax benefits, many of the eligible participants never take advantage of the program.