The initiative, designed to help New Yorkers afford public transportation, has just expanded. It’s called Fair Fares, yet not everyone is familiar with the program or knows if they are eligible.
Fair Fares NYC offers a 50% discount on the subway, some buses, and Access-A-Ride trips. You are not eligible if you’re already receiving discounted MTA transit.
Previously, New Yorkers aged 18 to 64 with an income of up to 120% of the federal poverty level could apply for the MetroCard discount. Now, New Yorkers with an income of up to 145% of the federal poverty level are eligible to apply. If you are unclear if your income falls within the guidelines, this chart can help you figure it out:

You can also check your eligibility on this website.
Here are the eligibility questions:
- Are you between (and including) the ages of 18 and 64?
- Do you live in New York City?
- Is your annual household income at or below the following limits?
- Are you interested in applying for a Fair Fares NYC MetroCard to use on subways and buses, or a Fair Fares NYC discount for Access-A-Ride?
- If you selected “Metrocard”: Do you currently receive (or are you eligible for) full carfare from DSS/HRA or a discounted MetroCard through any other NYC program?
- If you selected “Access-a-Ride”: Do you currently receive (or are you eligible for) full carfare from DSS/HRA?
- If you selected “No” to either option, you are deemed eligible for Fair Fares NYC and are directed to apply.
Enroll online through this website. If you need help applying, there are enrollment guides available in English and Spanish. You can find frequently asked questions here.
You can find a list of documents you might need in order to apply here. The necessary documentation is on a case-by-case basis but may include the following:
- Identity and age:
- Government-issued photo ID (e.g., NYS ID, IDNYC, passport)
- Birth certificate, adoption papers, or naturalization certificate
*Note: Fair Fares NYC will not ask about immigration status or record any information about immigration status.
- Proof of NYC residency (for the last 90 days):
- Utility or phone bill
- Lease, rent bill, or USPS change of address confirmation
- Bank or insurance statement
- Income verification:
- Tax return (IRS Form 1040)
- Pay stubs (last 30 days) or letter from employer with income details
- Award letters for benefits (e.g., SSI, unemployment)
- Proof of self-employment income or rental income
- Note: documentation of child support income is not required
For more information, visit nyc.gov/fairfares.
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