Summary
Starting January 1, 2026, New York City's MetroCards will no longer be available for purchase or refill as the transit system moves to the OMNY contactless payment system. Most people are already using OMNY to pay for subway and bus rides. The switch is expected to save money and modernize the payment process.
Key Facts
- The MetroCard will no longer be sold or refilled after December 31, 2025.
- OMNY allows riders to pay fares by tapping a contactless card or device.
- Over 90% of subway and bus trips in New York City are already paid with OMNY.
- Remaining balances on MetroCards can be transferred to OMNY Cards for up to two years after the expiration date of the MetroCard.
- MetroCards will be accepted for use until a specific date in 2026, which will be announced later.
- The new OMNY system includes a weekly fare cap of $34, where rides after the 12th trip in a week are free, mimicking the old 7-Day Unlimited MetroCard plan.
