This year, NYC’s public transit authority transitioned from yellow, thin MetroCards to thick, black OMNY cards for its half-priced fares program.
Compared to traditional MetroCards, OMNY cards offer many benefits. However, many people are unfamiliar with the new OMNY card and how to use it. This article will guide you step by step on how to make the most of the new features of the OMNY card.
Also Read: OMNY Card Account: Login, Reload and Save Fares on MTA Public Transit
What is the reduced-fare OMNY card?
The reduced-fare OMNY card is issued by the Metropolitan Transportation Authority (MTA). It allows eligible riders to pay half-price fares on MTA buses, subways, Staten Island Railway, Roosevelt Island Tram, and Hudson Rail Link.
The reduced-fare card is a benefit available to seniors 65 years of age or older and people with disabilities. Eligible individuals receive a 50 percent fare discount, including $1.45 for subways and local buses, $3.50 for express buses except during weekday peak hours, and up to 50 percent off Long Island Rail Road and Metro-North fares except during weekday morning peak travel to NYC.
To apply for a reduced-fare OMNY card, follow these instructions from the MTA.
Unlike the old reduced-fare MetroCard, which you swipe at the turnstile, the OMNY card requires a tap. Simply tap your reduced-fare OMNY card on the screen at a subway turnstile or on the bus. When it turns green and says “GO,” you’re ready to ride.
What are the benefits of the reduced-fare OMNY card?
- Weekly fare capping: Pay for 12 rides within seven days, and any additional rides for the rest of the week are free — ensuring you never spend more than $17 in a seven-day period.
- Free transfers: Enjoy the same free subway-to-bus and bus-to-bus transfers as you did with the MetroCard. Just tap your OMNY card when transferring within a two-hour window.
- Convenience reload option: You can reload your card online through a free OMNY account or even set up auto reload to ensure you never run out of balance.
How do I load and reload my reduced-fare OMNY card?
You can easily load or reload your reduced-fare OMNY card using cash, credit, or debit in several ways:
- OMNY vending machines: Visit a subway station and use an OMNY vending machine. Find locations at omny.info/omny-card.
- Retail locations: Reload your card at a participating store near you. Find one at omny.info/retail.
- Mobile sales team: Visit an MTA Mobile Sales location. Check their schedule at mta.info/mobilesales.
- Phone support: Call the OMNY Call Center at 877-789-6669 for assistance.
- Online: Add funds or set up automatic refills by creating a free account at omny.info.
Do I need an OMNY account to use a reduced-fare OMNY card?
No, an OMNY account is not required to use your reduced-fare OMNY card. However, creating an account online allows you to take full advantage of its features. You can check your balance, track your progress toward earning free rides, and set up automatic refills so you never have to worry about a low balance. If your card is lost or stolen, you can freeze your OMNY card balance for added security. An account also provides access to more functions to help you manage your card easily.
How do I create an OMNY account?
Follow these steps to create your free OMNY account:
- Visit the OMNY registration website and set up your login – Go to the official OMNY account registration page, enter a valid email address, and create a secure password that meets security requirements. Click “Next.”
- Enter your personal information and agree to the terms. Provide your full name, phone number and postal code, then check the required boxes to accept the terms and conditions before proceeding.
- Confirm your registration – Check your email for an activation link, and follow the instructions to activate your OMNY account.
- Your OMNY account is now active, allowing you to track your travel history, manage your payment methods, and enjoy the convenience of contactless transit payments.
Can I still use my traditional reduced-fare MetroCard?
Yes, you can continue using your traditional Reduced-Fare MetroCard until the expiration date printed on the back. The MTA recommends swiping your MetroCard to use up any remaining balance before transitioning to your OMNY card. If you have leftover funds on your MetroCard, you can visit a Customer Service Center at select subway stations to transfer the remaining balance to your Reduced-Fare OMNY card.
How can I get help with my reduced-fare OMNY card?
For assistance with reduced-dare OMNY, call the OMNY Call Center at 877-789-6669, available Monday through Friday from 8 am to 8 pm and Saturday through Sunday from 8 a.m. to 5 p.m. You can also visit a Customer Service Center at select subway stations 24/7 or at 3 Stone St. in Lower Manhattan, Monday through Friday from 9 a.m. to 5 p.m. Additionally, you can meet the Mobile Sales team in your neighborhood for in-person support.
