Increase in Fair Fares Income Guidelines

Under the recent New York City budget agreement, Fair Fares income eligibility has expanded from 150% to 200% of the Federal Poverty Level. This change will make half-priced subway, bus, and Access-A-Ride fares available to an estimated 1.3 million working-age New Yorkers.

The expansion is expected to take effect later this year.

Research from the Community Service Society (CSS) shows that Fair Fares has become an essential support for many New Yorkers. In a 2026 survey of 1,653 residents receiving benefits such as SNAP, Cash Assistance, or CityFHEPS, 92% of Fair Fares users reported that the program makes it easier to get around the city, while 81% said the savings help them afford basic necessities such as housing, food, and utilities. CSS continues to advocate for simpler enrollment and additional affordability measures to ensure transit costs are not a barrier to economic security. For more information, visit https://www.cssny.org/campaigns/entry/transit4all.