This definitely wasn’t there in 2020.
This must have been implemented fairly recently because I don’t remember it being a thing when I was in Toronto in 2020-2021, but I’m no doubt sure it was created due to the rising inflation.
(Note: So it turns out it was a thing since 2018, but got more mainstream in 2023, which probably has to do with why I’m now seeing advertisements for it in the subway when I returned to Toronto last month)
The TTC (Toronto Transit Commission) now has a ‘Fair Pass Transit Discount Program‘ that gives a $1.20 discount on a single fare, and a $32.75 discount on the monthly pass for folks with low income (like yours truly lol). [Source: Toronto.ca]
If you’re a frequent traveller of the TTC, then you know those fares add up quickly over the day, so this is a much-needed benefit. More so if you’re homeless and always on the move to make the most of your day.
Tip #1: If you use the TTC, then you probably know that free transfers last up to two hours. Use this to your advantage and try to finish as many things as you need in a two-hour period. Unfortunately, though, that will be a challenge for other disabled folks.
I did have an issue with the signup process for the program though. I was able to enter all of my information, except for my address. The online system didn’t list the apartment address of where I was, so I had to call to apply instead.
A little annoying if you’re like me who has social anxiety and didn’t realise it was a Friday and now has to wait until Monday to call. The discount also doesn’t happen instantly, it’ll take a couple of business days.
If you need a physical PRESTO card for the TTC, you can get one for free at libraries in Toronto. And if you’re like me who also has to travel light, convert your pass to a digital one on your smartphone.
Tip #2: Make sure you check how much funds are on your digital PRESTO card before a trip. Unlike with the physical card, it won’t cover your fare if it drops into the negatives. But on the plus side, added funds to your digital card are available instantly unlike with the physical cards.
I’m particularly lucky because before this whole homelessness ordeal I’m going through, I bought a Google Pixel Watch from Amazon, so now my pass is conveniently on my arm at all times. I actually didn’t foresee how essential it would be for someone in the city when I originally bought it for my health because of the surgery.
I’m right-handed but I switch it to my right arm when going out since the TTC tap machine is also on the right.
Now I just need to make sure I don’t get robbed while I’m asleep in a shelter lol. I’m unfortunately a deep sleeper.
Tip #3: If you know you’re going to be travelling a lot, ask for the transit fare benefit from your Ontario Works’s caseworker to buy the monthly pass. It will help you not overspend on travel.
“Do I have to purchase a TTC Monthly Pass or will my card stop charging me once I hit $156 or $128.15?”
Yes. You have to purchase a TTC Monthly Pass on PRESTO to benefit from the unlimited travel for a month. [Source: TTC]
Recommendation: HELPFUL
Edit (October 10th, 2024 @ 1:07PM):
I did thought when I was travelling that I saw something about fare capping while on the bus.
I confirmed that it wasn’t for the TTC, but was instead for the YRT (York Region Transit): YRT Fare Capping Program replacing monthly passes effective January 1, 2024
Which also goes into one last TTC tip: Tip #4.
Watch your travel expenses when travelling around the GTA (Greater Toronto Area) using public transit.
The TTC fare discount does not apply there.
My trip to Brampton to an AirBnb was more expensive because of it.
——————
Want to help support the website so I’m not facing Toronto’s deadly winters on the streets? ｡ﾟ･ (>﹏<) ･ﾟ｡
Interac email (auto-deposit): pinksuitcasesurvivor@gmail.com
