Lyft will give a bonus to its drivers — but only if you tip them first

Lyft is looking to gain further favor with its 315,000 drivers. The on-demand ride company has created an “appreciation day” as a means of saying thank you to its safest and best drivers. Lyft said it will match passenger tips for each driver, up to $20 for the day, with a maximum match amount per tip of $5. This is the first time the company has ever done something like this.

Although it’s a nice idea, drivers will only receive extra tips if passengers contribute. This event is likely designed to encourage more tip-giving in order to retain drivers and boost the amount that the company can claim its drivers earn.

“By treating people better and fostering a community that values respect and friendliness, we’ve attracted the best rideshare drivers who provide incredible hospitality for their passengers,” stated company president John Zimmer.

To date, Lyft claims that more than $100 million in tips has been received by drivers. What’s more, $750 million has been taken out through its Express Pay option, which launched a year ago. The financial incentives are part of a larger package the company has put together for drivers, along with discounts at Shell gas stations and deals with Hertz, through which drivers can rent a car to use for the service.

So, for the next 24 hours, after every Lyft ride you take, remember that if you do tip your driver, it will be matched by the company. The tip-matching extends from 1 a.m. Pacific on December 14 until 12:59 a.m. Pacific on December 15. It’s available in all the markets the service currently operates in.