How much is the reduced fare, and how much does a reduced fare ORCA card cost?
The reduced fare is $1.50 per ride, for any time of day, one-zone or two-zone travel. You can pay per ride, or get a monthly pass for $54. The ORCA LIFT card is free once you qualify and it’s valid for 24 months. If it gets lost or damaged, a replacement costs $5.
How do I qualify?
Your income must be below 200% of the Federal Poverty Guidelines (chart below). To show that you are eligible you’ll need to present documentation, such as an award letter for EBT food stamps or SSI, a ProviderOne medical services card, paystubs or tax return. A full list of acceptable documents can be found at www.orcalift.com.
When and where can I get an ORCA LIFT card?
You can order one now and it will be mailed to you starting February 1! Visit https://metro.kingcounty.gov/programsprojects/orca-lift/enrollment-locations.html for a full list of enrollment locations, days and times. When you get your card, it won’t have any value on it yet. You can pay for Epurse value or a monthly pass at an ORCA customer service center (King Street Center, 401 S. Jackson), ticket vending machine, or ORCA retailer.
Can I pay the reduced fare with cash?
Nope, you must have an ORCA LIFT card.
Can I use my ORCA LIFT card on Sound Transit?
Link Light Rail is also introducing a $1.50 low-income reduced fare starting March 1, but Sound Transit buses are not. You can still use your card on ST buses and other services that accept ORCA, but you’ll have to pay the full fare – if you are using the monthly pass, you can make up the difference with E-Purse or cash. Kitsap Transit and the King County Water Taxi also have a low income fare.
Do you Qualify for the new ORCA LIFT Reduced Fare of $1.50?
If your annual income is less than listed in the chart below, you do!
More questions?
They may (or may not) be answered here: www.orcalift.com