Seniors: Sign Up For Free Public Transit Rides


Posted: 3/25/2008
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Dear Neighbor,

If you are 65 years of age or older, you are now eligible for free rides on the CTA, Metra and Pace.  The free-ride program is part of an Illinois law enacted in January that devised a long-term funding solution for mass transit.

To receive a free ride, you must have either a senior reduced-fare card or the new RTA free-ride ID card.  Show your card to the driver, ticket agent or conductor, or use it at a turnstile or farebox.

To sign up for the RTA's senior free-ride program, register during normal business hours at one of the pre-approved locations.  Below are the downtown locations and those closest to the 49th Ward:

  • Chicago City Hall, 121 N. LaSalle, Room 100
  • RTA Customer Service Center, 165 N. Jefferson
  • Chicago Department of Aging, Levy Center, 2019 W. Lawrence
  • Southeast Asian Center, 5120 N. Broadway
  • Council for Jewish Elderly, 3003 W. Touhy, Room 214
  • Levy Center, 300 Dodge, Evanston

The CTA will offer refunds to riders for the remaining balance on fare cards.  Eligible cards include SmartCard Senior Permits, Magnetic Senior Permits and Single Reduced Fare Transit Cards.  Cash refunds and check refund applications are available at CTA headquarters, 567 W. Lake, Monday through Friday from 9 a.m. to 4 p.m.  Please note: You must bring your current card to get a refund.  Cash refunds will be given to all eligible seniors on the day of the visit.  Refunds by check will be mailed.

Applications for refund checks only will be available at the Chicago Department of Aging, Levy Center, 2019 W. Lawrence, on Friday March 28th  between 9 a.m. and 4 p.m.  Don't forget to bring your current card to get the refund.

For more information about the CTA's refund policy, CLICK HERE or call 888-YOUR CTA (888-968-7282).

Sincerely,

Joe Moore