MBTA reduced fare program launches in September. Here's how to know if you're eligible

Here's how you can pay less and ride more on public transportation in Massachusetts.

The Massachusetts Bay Transportation Authority announced that they will be expanding access to cheaper fare prices to some eligible riders starting Sept. 4, 2024.

"A meaningful improvement for fare equity, the new program provides riders who are aged 18-64 and have low income with reduced one-way fares of approximately 50% off on all MBTA buses, subway, Commuter Rail, and paratransit (The RIDE) travel," the press release said.

Opening to the public on Sept. 4, applications for reduced fares are available either online or at one of five in-person application sites at launch. Another 31 application locations will become available over the course of this fall, the press release said.

To apply online, you will have to create a MyCharlie account on the mycharlie.mbta.com website. From there, you'll need to verify your information by either scanning your ID or entering it in manually. Then you'll have to enter your shipping address where you can pick up your reduced fare card in the mail a week after once approved.

With that special fare-reduced CharlieCard , you'll be able to get cash fares half off, $10 7-Day LinkPasses or $30 monthly LinkPasses.

Who is eligible for a fare-reduced CharlieCard?

The conditions for eligibility are as follows:

• Massachusetts resident
• Possess a government-issued ID
• Between the ages of 18 and 64
• Enrolled in one of the following state assistance programs:
  • Emergency Aid to the Elderly, Disabled & Children (EAEDC)
  • MA SSGrant
  • MassHealth CarePlus
  • MassHealth Family Assistance
  • MassHealth Limited
  • MassHealth Standard
  • Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program (SNAP)
  • Transitional Aid to Families with Dependent Children (TAFDC)

What is the cheapest public transport in Boston?

The cheapest public transport in Boston is the local bus, with its fare being $1.70, as opposed to the more expensive subway or the T, which has a fare price of $2.40.

Who can ride free on MBTA?

Children 11 years or younger, people who are legally blind, active-duty uniformed military personnel, police officers, firefighters and government officials can ride free on the MBTA.

Rin Velasco is a trending reporter. She can be reached at rvelasco@gannett.com.

This article originally appeared on wickedlocal.com: MBTA reduced fare program launches in September. Here's how to know if you're eligible