New MBTA reduced fare program begins on Wednesday

A new MBTA reduced fare program opens to the public on Wednesday, officials said.

The Income-Eligible Reduced Fares Program offers reduced fares to riders between the ages of 18 and 64 who are enrolled in an approved state welfare program, a statement from the MBTA said.

“We are thrilled to launch the Income-Eligible Reduced Fares Program, which will increase access to the T’s buses, subways, commuter rail, ferries and paratransit for riders across the state. We’re putting $720 back in the pockets of each daily rider who uses this program,” Governor Maura Healey said in a statement. 

Applications for the Income-Eligible Reduced Fares Program open to the public on Wednesday, Sept. 4. 

MBTA reduced fare program benefits

Once accepted, program enrollees will receive a reduced fare CharlieCard, the MBTA said. An enrolled card can be loaded with 50 percent off all MBTA rides, whether that be on the bus, subway, Commuter Rail, or other public transit, the department said. 

The MBTA estimates more than 60,000 riders will enroll in the program, which they say will result in more than 8 million new trips per year.  

“Equity in transportation is vital and income-eligible reduced fares mean we are supporting increased mobility access for all,” said Transportation Secretary Monica Tibbits-Nutt. 

Who is eligible for reduced T fare?

The MBTA released the requirements for eligibility to enroll in the program. Enrollees will need to renew their eligibility every year, the department said. Riders qualify for the Income-Eligible Reduced Fares Program if they:

Transitional Aid to Families with Dependent Children (TAFDC)

• Are a Massachusetts resident
• Have a government-issued ID
• Are between the ages of 18 and 64
• Are enrolled in one of the following state assistance programs:
  • Emergency Aid to the Elderly, Disabled & Children (EAEDC)
  • MASSGrant
  • MassHealth CarePlus
  • MassHealth Family Assistance
  • MassHealth Limited
  • MassHealth Standard
  • Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program (SNAP)