Portable Benefits
DoorDash firmly believes that all workers deserve access, choice, and security when it comes to how they want to work. While the average Dasher delivers fewer than 4 hours per week and the vast majority already receive benefits through other sources like a full-time job or a spouse, we can continue to expand the safety net in ways that meet the needs of those who dash more consistently and may be missing out on important benefits.
Portable Benefits as a Policy Solution
The data shows that app-based workers' benefits must be tailored, flexible, portable, and proportional. One policy framework meets these criteria: portable benefits.
This approach is tailored. Platform contributions are channeled to workers who meet reasonable qualifying thresholds rather than all workers who may only do this work a couple of hours each week.
This approach is flexible. Workers have the control to choose the benefits they need most. For example, workers who get healthcare insurance through their employer or spouse may direct funds to retirement instead.
This approach is portable. The account would belong to the worker—regardless of where they work. Even if they stopped using the platform, they would still have access to their benefits and could have earnings from multiple platforms or jobs directed to this account.
This approach is proportional. Because platform contributions are tied to a worker's earnings, contributions would increase the more a worker uses the platform. Workers who do this work the most—and are missing access to these benefits through another source—will get the most support.
Types of Benefits Savings Opportunities
Eligible expenses covered by portable benefits may include: retirement savings; health, dental, and vision insurance; and, paid time off.
Understanding Dashers
6M
people dashed in the US in 2023.
92%
of Dashers agree that dashing allows them more flexibility compared with other earnings opportunities they’ve had.
91%
of Dashers prefer to remain independent contractors.
Around 90%
of Dashers spent less than 10 hours per week on delivery and the average Dasher spent less than 4 hours per week on delivery in Q4 2023.
