Paying your fare got even easier with Clipper 2.0. Riders can pay using their phones or cards. Muni also offers free and discount fare programs.
In May, we launched an initiative called Fares for Our Future. Part of that initiative is to make sure that everyone who can pay their fare does pay their fare. Muni is facing the largest operating deficit in its history. Fare revenue is a critical piece as we work to stabilize our operating budget. But we also want to make sure people who can’t afford to pay full fare for Muni are able to get the financial assistance they need.
San Francisco is a leader in the Bay Area with its comprehensive and regionally coordinated free and discounted fare programs. We want to spread the word about these opportunities that make riding Muni easier and more affordable. These programs may benefit you or someone you know. Help us get the word out so everyone can pay the fare they deserve.
Muni's free and discounted fares for seniors and people with disabilities
Free Muni
San Francisco residents age 65 and older and residents with disabilities are eligible for Free Muni if their income is at or below 100% of Bay Area Median Income. Find out your Median Income Level.
Seniors and people with disabilities can qualify for free and reduced Muni fares.
Apply online at SFMTA.com/FreeMuni. Or pick up a paper application at the SFMTA Customer Service Center at 11 South Van Ness Avenue. Completed applications can be returned to the Customer Service Center or by mail.
People with disabilities must obtain a Clipper Access Pass before applying.
Discount single ride and monthly passes
Seniors and people with disabilities whose incomes are higher than the Bay Area Median Income qualify for a 50% discount on Muni single rides or a monthly Muni pass.
- Paying with Clipper
- You will need a Senior or Clipper Access card. Visit clippercard.com/discounts for more information on how to get one.
- Tap when you board, and you’ll get the 50% discount on single rides.
- Or buy a 50% discount monthly Muni pass (see clippercard.com/reload for options)
- Paying with cash for single ride fares on board Muni vehicles
- Enter at the front door.
- Let the driver know you are eligible for a discount.
- Exact change is required on board vehicles.
- You may be asked to show proof of age.
- Paying with cash for single ride fares at Muni ticket vending machines in the subway
- Purchase a reduced fare ticket at a Muni ticket vending machine (cash only) or a Muni ticket vending machine.
- You may be asked to show proof of age.
Muni's discounted fares for adults with low incomes
Clipper START
Customers between ages 19 and 64 can get a 50% discount on single rides or a monthly Muni pass with Clipper START if they meet income requirements. The single ride 50% discount is valid on 27 Bay Area transit systems.
Apply for a Clipper START card at clipperstartcard.com.
Your household adjusted gross income must be at or below 200% of the federal poverty level to qualify for the program. You’ll need to provide proof of identity and income. (CalFresh recipients can sign in with Login.gov).
2026 income limits:
| People in the household | Income up to |
|---|---|
| 1 | $31,920 |
| 2 | $43,280 |
| 3 | %54,640 |
| 4 | $66,000 |
| 5 | $77,360 |
| 6 | $88,720 |
| 7 | $100,080 |
| 8 | $111,440 |
| 9 | $120,000 |
For a 9+ household, add $11,360
Muni Lifeline Pass is an option for Clipper START customers
A 50% discount monthly Muni “Lifeline” pass is available for Clipper START customers. It costs $43. There are different ways to load value for single rides or purchase a Lifeline monthly pass:
- In person at any Clipper retail vendor, Muni Metro Clipper vending machine
- Online at clippercard.com/reload
- On your phone via the Clipper app
This program is moving to Clipper Start starting in September. The last monthly Lifeline stickers will go on sale in late July. The stickers will be valid for the month of August. After September 1, the Lifeline pass will be part of Clipper START. Learn more about the Lifeline Pass.
Other free fare programs
- Free Muni for All Youth (18 years and younger) allows youth to ride Muni for free. This discount does not extend to cable cars.
- Access Pass provides individuals experiencing homelessness with free access to Muni.
We want to help keep San Francisco moving. And we’re serious about making Muni more accessible for all. Help us spread the word about these free and discounted fare programs.
For more information on fare programs, see SFMTA.com/Fares