Officials at DoorDash, concerned about how the recent rapid rise in price of U.S. gas could impact their drivers and business model, have announced a new program that they feel will offset the cost increase — even on miles when the drivers are not working for the company.
The program will compensate drivers in two ways:
- 10% cash back on all purchases: All drivers in the U.S. (who the company calls dashers) are eligible for 10% cash back on gas through a DasherDirect prepaid business Visa debit card designed for the company. DoorDash officials said no credit check is required to apply, and dashers can start using a virtual card at digital checkout screens as soon as they’re approved.
- Weekly bonus for those who work the most: Dashers who accept and complete orders totaling 100 miles in a motor vehicle will earn an extra $5. This bonus will increase with an increase in miles. Drivers who go 175 miles will earn an extra $10. Driving reaching 225 miles will earn $15. The company estimates these bonuses could be worth between $1.27 and $1.69 per gallon.
Between the two programs, the company estimates that its drivers could earn as much as $2 a gallon — which would offset the recent rise in the price of gas.
Company officials said the programs, which started in mid-March, will be in place at least through April — and will be extended if gas prices remain high.
“Our mission is to empower local economies and that begins with serving our dasher, merchant and customer community as best we can,” the company said in a release. “Throughout the pandemic, and especially with recent inflation, millions of people around the globe have sought opportunities to flexibly earn supplemental income with DoorDash, including 3 million Americans in the fourth quarter of 2021 and over 6 million in all of 2021.
“We want to ensure that these earning opportunities remain accessible and viable for all, and we believe these relief measures will help keep the most money possible in dashers’ pockets.”
