RTA Reminder

September 1 is near with a deadline for RTA Senior Circuit Ride Free/Reduced Fare Programs. Only new Senior Circuit Ride Free permits will be accepted on CTA, Metra or Pace buses or trains. New permits were sent to all who previously registered with the program. If a new permit has not been received, RTA asks that a visit be made to www.cbrx.il.gov or call 800-624-2459.

If an application has not previously been made, Seniors are encouraged to apply online as the application process in this manner is much faster.

Income levels are $27,610 or less for an individual; $36,635 for a two-person household to $45,657 for a household of three or more people. Seniors should only apply for the Circuit Breaker program if they meet age, income and other eligibility criteria. 

All other seniors qualify to ride at a reduced fare which in most cases is approximately half fare.  Costello reiterated that seniors do not need to re-apply to the Circuit Breaker program or for the new Circuit Ride Free permit if they already have a Seniors Ride Free permit because the RTA will automatically mail the appropriate permits in August.

As a result of the new legislation, the RTA will now have two programs: the Seniors Circuit Ride Free program and the Seniors Reduced Fare program.  In early April, the RTA began sending correspondence to all seniors who are currently enrolled in the current Seniors Ride Free program advising them about the program changes.  Extensive communications and outreach efforts are ongoing.