Fair Fares NYC is a city-funded transportation assistance program that provides a 50% discount on subway and eligible bus fares for low-income New York City residents. Unlike the standard Reduced-Fare MetroCard for seniors or riders with disabilities, Fair Fares is specifically designed for working-age residents (18-64) who meet income guidelines, allowing them to pay $1.45 per ride instead of the standard $2.90.

Living in New York City is expensive, but getting around shouldn’t bankrupt you. Whether you are a student, a freelance creative, or working a service job while waiting for your big break, the cost of transit adds up. In 2025, the program has undergone significant modernization, finally bridging the gap between social services and modern transit tech.

This guide cuts through the bureaucratic noise to help you understand if you qualify, how to apply via ACCESS HRA, and how to use the new OMNY integration.

Eligibility: Do You Qualify in 2025?

The most significant change for 2025 is the expansion of the income limit. Previously capped at 100% or 120% of the Federal Poverty Level (FPL), the city has raised the bar to 145% of the FPL. This adjustment accounts for the rising cost of living and opens the door for many single residents and families who were previously just above the cutoff.

Basic Requirements

• Age: You must be between 18 and 64 years old.
• Residency: You must currently live in one of the five boroughs (Manhattan, Brooklyn, Queens, The Bronx, Staten Island).
• Status: Available to all residents regardless of immigration status.
• Exclusions: You are not eligible if you already receive a full-fare transit benefit from DSS/HRA or hold another discounted card (like a Senior or Disability MetroCard).

2025 Income Limits Table

Use the table below to check your household size against the current maximum annual income allowed. (Data effective as of late 2025).

Note: If you are already receiving Cash Assistance or SNAP benefits, you likely automatically qualify and may not need to provide income documents again. Check your status in the ACCESS HRA portal.

The Shift to OMNY: What You Need to Know

For years, Fair Fares was synonymous with a special yellow MetroCard. As of 2025, the program has pivoted to OMNY (One Metro New York). This is a massive upgrade for user experience.

• The Card: New applicants receive a reloadable Fair Fares OMNY card in the mail.
• Fare Capping: This is the biggest financial win. With OMNY, once you spend $17.00 in a single week (Monday–Sunday), all subsequent rides that week are free. This effectively gives you an “Unlimited Weekly” pass for half the price of the standard cap ($34).
• Reloading: You can reload your Fair Fares OMNY card at OMNY vending machines, select retail locations (like bodegas or pharmacies), or online.

If you still have an unexpired Fair Fares MetroCard, you can continue to use it until it expires, but we recommend transitioning to OMNY as soon as possible to take advantage of the fare capping.

How to Apply: A Step-by-Step Guide

The city has streamlined the application process significantly. You generally do not need to visit an office in person.

Step 1: Gather Your Documents

Before you log in, have digital copies (clear photos or scans) of the following ready:

• Proof of Identity: IDNYC, Driver’s License, Passport, or Electronic Benefit Transfer (EBT) card with photo.
• Proof of NYC Residency: Utility bill, lease, or official mail postmarked within the last 60 days.
• Proof of Income: Pay stubs (last 30 days), tax returns, or a letter from your employer.

Step 2: Apply via ACCESS HRA

Navigate to the ACCESS HRA website or download the mobile app.

1. Create an account or log in.
2. Select “Fair Fares NYC” from the benefits menu.
3. Complete the “Check Eligibility” quiz.
4. Upload your documents directly through the portal.

Pro Tip: If you are new to city services, read our guide on Navigating NYC’s Immigration & City Services Offices for tips on using the HRA system.

Step 3: Receive Your Card

Once approved, your card will be mailed to you. This typically takes 2 to 3 weeks. Do not panic if it doesn’t arrive in 5 days; city mail moves at its own pace.

Renewal and Maintenance

Fair Fares eligibility is not permanent. You typically need to renew your enrollment once a year. The ACCESS HRA app will send you a notification when your renewal window opens (usually 60 days before expiration).

• Do not ignore the renewal notice. If your coverage lapses, you will immediately begin paying full fare ($2.90) per ride.
• Lost Card? If you lose your Fair Fares OMNY card, report it immediately via ACCESS HRA to protect your balance and request a replacement.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)

Does Fair Fares cover Express Buses?

No. The Fair Fares discount applies to local buses, the subway, and Staten Island Railway. It does not apply to Express Buses or the LIRR/Metro-North.

Can I use my Fair Fares card for my children?

Fair Fares cards are non-transferable and meant for the cardholder only. However, children under 44 inches ride free, and students typically receive Student MetroCards or OMNY cards from their schools. See our article on Getting Around NYC for more on student transit.

What if I am denied?

If you believe you were wrongly denied, you can file an appeal through ACCESS HRA. Ensure your income documents are legible and accurately reflect your current financial situation.

For more tips on living in the city without breaking the bank, check out Budget-Friendly NYC: 50 Free & Cheap Things to Do.