A New Chapter for New Yorkers’ Commutes
December marks the final month that MetroCards are accepted in New York City. After the end of the year, all rides will be handled exclusively through OMNY, the city’s tap‑and‑go payment system.
If you still have money on your MetroCard, the MTA urges you to move it to an OMNY card while the opportunity is still available. The agency has repurposed its mobile sales vans, which used to hand out MetroCards, to help passengers transfer their balances and to explain how the new system works.
You can transfer funds anytime up to the date shown on the top‑left corner of your card. The MTA strongly recommends using or converting your balance before that expiration, as it may otherwise be forfeited.
Commuters have until 31 December to switch to an OMNY‑enabled card and then can ride every subway line, MTA bus route, Staten Island Railway, Hudson Rail Link, Roosevelt Island Tram, and the AirTrain links at Howard Beach and Jamaica.
Getting an OMNY Card
- At Metro stations: most subway stations house OMNY vending machines where you can buy or reload a card.
- In retail spots: selected Walgreens, CVS, 7‑Eleven, CFSC Checks Cashed, and local bodegas carry OMNY machines.
- Online: After registering for an OMNY account at omny.info/register, you can add funds directly from your web portal.
How to Transfer a MetroCard Balance
- The MTA says balances are valid for transfer or refund for up to two years after the card’s expiration date.
- Transfers must be handled in person, either at a Customer Service Center or on one of the mobile sales vans. Digital or machine transfers are not available.
When and Where You Can Transfer
The MTA has scheduled a series of mobile vans that will travel around the city during a two‑week window. Below is an overview of the key stops in each borough (exact dates and times listed on the official MTA calendars):
- Manhattan: Several Midtown, Upper East, Upper West, and Lower East side sites from early December to mid‑January.
- Bronx: Visits to Co‑op City and other downtown locations.
- Queens: A mix of Forest Hills, Astoria, Sunnyside, and Flushing stops.
- Brooklyn: Bensonhurst, Bay Ridge, and other neighborhoods.
- Staten Island, New Rochelle, Mount Vernon, White Plains, Peekskill, Tarrytown, and Yonkers: Selected community centers, libraries, and commercial spots.
Because the schedule changes every few days, commuters should check the MTA’s official website or contact local representatives for the precise timing for their area.
The Bottom Line
With the last MetroCard accepted on 31 December, New Yorkers need to act quickly if they want to keep their fare money. Turn your balance to OMNY, choose a convenient transfer point, and once you’re on the OMNY system, enjoy simple tap‑and‑go rides across the entire transit network.
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