The RIDE Loses Coupons

THE RIDE has changed their payment procedure from using pre-paid coupons/tickets to a pre-paid account debit program. As of today, the old coupons are no longer accepted. The new program requires an initial minimum $12.00 deposit. Riders must maintain sufficient funds in their account to complete any desired trips. The “RIDE GUIDE” states “THE RIDE fares are debited from your account as you board the vehicle. THE RIDE is not required to transport any persons who do not maintain adequate funds in their RIDE account.”

The account balance can be determined via the Internet, or by calling the transportation Contractor or the Administrative Office of the MBTA Office for Transportation Access.

Payments can be made via the internet at www.mbta.com with a credit or debit card. A llow 2 business days for credit/debit card processing . Or riders may mail a check or money order to the MBTA’s Revenue Department at: MBTA Revenue – THE RIDE, 21 Arlington Avenue–B2 Charlestown, MA 02129 (riders can pay via credit/debit card via mail also). Riders should be aware they should allow or 5 business days for check/money order processing. Deposits may also be made at the MBTA’s Back Bay Station on the Orange Line (Office for Transportation Access –145 Dartmouth Street, Boston, Monday – Friday, 8:30 a.m. – 5 p.m.). This location will accept cash, checks, money order and credit/debit cards. All correspondence must include the rider’s RIDE ID number. A one-way trip within one zone costs $1.50.

The current application for THE RIDE and links to “THE RIDE GUIDE” are on the department’s web page (www.mghsocialwork.org > Staff Access > Community Resource Center > Basic Needs > Transportation) and at www.mbta.com.

- Adapted from “THE RIDE GUIDE”, MBTA-OTA, 01/12/05 - R1.1

02/2005