Income Eligible Reduced Fare Program

MBTA has expanded eligibility for reduced fares on transit. To learn more visit mbta.com/income-eligible

Reduced MBTA fares for qualified Cambridge residents ages 18 to 64

The MBTA Income-Eligible Reduced Fare Program offers discounted MBTA passes to eligible Cambridge residents between the ages of 18-64 who are enrolled in an approved state assistance program. Applicants need to provide a photo ID and proof of enrollment in a state assistance program.

How much does an income-eligible CharlieCard cost?

You can purchase a discounted pass or discounted pay-per-ride fare. You can purchase a monthly pass for $30 or 7-day pass for $10 for unlimited rides on the subway and bus. You can also pay for one-way trips with stored value with a 50% discount.

For commuter rail trips, eligible riders can purchase one-way and ten-trip tickets with a 50% discount at fare vending machines, on board, at ticket windows, and via the mTicket smartphone application. The Fairmount Line has special rates and requires using a validator machine to get a receipt.

How long are passes good for?

Each personalized pass is active from the day you receive it for one year. Participants must renew their eligibility either in person or using the MyCharlie website. You can renew your reduced fare CharlieCard as early as two months before its expiration date.

How do I apply?

New and returning applicants apply online by filling out this online application. The MBTA will review your application. If approved, MBTA's vendor will mail you the Low-Income Fare Pass. If the MBTA identify a problem, they will notify you through the application website.

What are the eligibility requirements?

To qualify for the income eligible reduced fares, you must show that you:

  • 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)
    • Transitional Aid to Families with Dependent Children (TAFDC)

For more information

Visit the MBTA income-eligible reduced fare webpage; send an e-mail to reducedfares@mbta.com; or contact the MBTA Customer Service number by calling 617-222-4200.