DoorDash offering relief program to its drivers as gas prices rise
Facing elevated fuel costs amid geopolitical tensions, DoorDash unveils an emergency relief program for Dashers that blends 10% gas-back with a mileage-based weekly cash top-up, aiming to ease pumping expenses as momentum stalls after an early surge. Eligible Dashers can stack benefits by using the DoorDash Crimson card, delivering or not, with potential savings of about $1.40-$1.90 per gallon and weekly relief payments for those driving 125 miles or more. The plan also ties into EV support through charging discounts and is scheduled to run through April 26, reflecting a targeted response to rural and high-mileage delivery patterns. The initiative underscores the broader squeeze on gig workers from rising gas prices tied to the ongoing Iran-related conflict, and signals what’s next for driver relief programs. There is no external information beyond the text provided.
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DoorDash is offering 10% cash back on gas for Dashers who use the DoorDash Crimson card, applicable at any U.S. gas station while actively delivering or not. Dashers without the Crimson card can apply in the Dasher app to access the benefit.
In addition to the gas-back, Dashers who drive 125 miles or more while dashing will receive a weekly fuel relief payment, starting at $5 and potentially rising to $15 per week depending on miles driven, aiming to tier support by work intensity.
Combining both benefits could yield savings in the range of $1.40-$1.90 per gallon based on weekly mileage, according to the company release, with further relief estimated from weekly payments.
Crimson cardholders also earn 2% cash back on EV-charging purchases, and all Dashers receive discounts on EV charging, reflecting a broader shift toward electric-vehicle support within the program.
The program runs through April 26, and its launch note quotes Cody Aughney, DoorDash's VP of Dasher and logistics, emphasizing real savings at the pump for those delivering the most goods.
The policy is framed against rising gas prices driven by the Iran-related conflict, with a national context noting fuel costs had climbed notably in the weeks prior, including a March 23 national average near $3.93 per gallon.
The initiative highlights a targeted approach to rural and suburban Dashers who travel more miles, signaling a potential model for future relief efforts tied to driver economics.