Among many things that were suspended in March, 2020 when the COVID-19 pandemic first hit with a vengeance, was front door boarding and fare collection on Metro buses (to reduce the risk of infection for both bus drivers and passengers). And unlike many things that were re-opened or re-started in 2021 as COVID calmed down a bit and vaccinations rolled out, Metro buses have remained free ever since. But starting on January 10, riders will once again have to board through front doors and pay via the farebox or TAP card reader.  So this is a good time to dig out your old TAP cards and make sure they’re loaded for new rides.
Despite the overall resumption of fares, however, it’s also worth noting that some riders will still be eligible for free fares or discounts.
First, Metro is still piloting the first phase of its fare-free GoPass program for K-12 and community college students at participating schools (including LAUSD schools and many charters), which began last fall. Students who register for, receive, and activate a special GoPass TAP card can ride both buses and trains without paying fees, both to and from school as well as after school and on weekends.
And finally, low income residents can also still take advantage of Metro’s Low Income Fare is Easy (LIFE) program, which provides varying discounts on Metro fare cards based on specific income levels.
For more information on these ongoing programs, see the links above and/or contact Metro Community Relations at [email protected].
Dear Ms. Fuller:
Before you refer to Metro activities again, it might be an eye-opener for you to see how the company REALLY treats its customers. I spent several hours this afternoon trying to set up a
LIFE account at the Metro Customer Center at Wilshire & Vermont. Understaffed with uninformed
employees, the facility had over 30 people crammed into a space which, according to the sign on
the front door, is approved for occupancy (per covid regulations) by no more than 10. After 2 LONG hours, I finally got to a window (only one clerk was working) only to be told that “the
LIFE gets out on your card somepalce else. We don’t know where – somebody put it in a
computer”. I tell you, it would be REALLY interesting for any reporter who writes about Metro!
I DO enjoy your work & look forward to reading your articles in the BUZZ.
Hi, Carol — So sorry you had such a bad experience. It looks like Metro realized the problems, too, and it has now cancelled the in-person enrollment events for the LIFE program. See https://www.nbclosangeles.com/news/local/metro-cancels-in-person-enrollment-events-for-discounted-fares-due-to-covid-19/2792799/ . People can still register online, though, at https://bit.ly/3x6RYe5 Hope everything gets straightened out with your registration!