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New Yorkers can obtain a free OMNY card starting Tuesday as the Metropolitan Transportation Authority (MTA) gears up to replace the 30-year-old MetroCard system. The first 400 riders at each of the 16 customer service centers across the five boroughs who transfer their MetroCard balances to an OMNY card will receive the card without the usual fee, which ranges from $1 to $5.
The MTA is transitioning to a tap-to-ride system that allows riders to pay fares using digital wallets, contactless credit and debit cards, and OMNY cards. MetroCard sales will end on December 31, 2025, though they will still be accepted into 2026. The final date for MetroCard acceptance will be announced later.
According to the MTA, the promotion is part of an effort to ease the transition to the new system. MTA Chief Customer Officer Shanifah Rieara stated, "We want to make sure customers are aware of all the resources available at our growing number of customer service centers across the subway system."
The OMNY cards distributed during this promotion will not have any pre-loaded trip value. The MTA is also planning a fare increase in January, raising the fare from $2.90 to $3. Riders are encouraged to use up their MetroCard balances, but any remaining balance can be transferred or reimbursed within two years of the card's expiration date.
PIX11 reports that the MTA has been preparing for this transition by replacing MetroCard machines with OMNY machines and distributing OMNY cards to public school students and those enrolled in the Fair Fares program.
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