You may want to hang on to those spent MetroCards as a collector’s item, since they’ll only be available for purchase for the next three months and then never to be sold again.
The retirement of the MetroCard has been looming for years, with the MTA gradually rolling out OMNY—the tap-to-pay system—and installing OMNY vending machines throughout the network; however, the transition has been much slower than originally intended. Yet, come this December, it will officially be then end of an era.
When is the MetroCard retiring?
The MetroCard will officially retire on December 31st, 2025. Commuters won’t be able to buy or reload a MetroCard after that.
What will replace the MetroCard?
The OMNY system will fully replace MetroCards. This tap-to-pay system permits riders to use their digital wallets, contactless debit/credit cards, or a physical OMNY card to pay for MTA fares.
Will the remaining balance be lost on my MetroCard?
According to the MTA, “remaining balances will be eligible for transfer or reimbursement for two years after the expiration date on the MetroCard.” Moreover, your MetroCard will still be accepted into 2026. Even so, the MTA urges riders to “spend down the value on your MetroCard before it expires.”
Where can I buy an OMNY card?
You can forgo a physical OMNY card and solely use your phone or credit card to tap and pay each fare. Otherwise, you can purchase an OMNY card at vending machines found in most subway stations. OMNY cards can also be purchased at select retail locations around NYC, online, and at the Mobile Sales Van stations that make their way around the city.
This handy map shows every subway station with an OMNY machine.
What happens to discounted fares?
Riders (student, senior, eligible for a disability program) who qualify for reduced fares will receive that same rate with OMNY.
Will OMNY use fare caps?
OMNY applies automatic weekly fare capping, so after 12 paid rides within a seven-day period, every subsequent ride that week is free. There is no option to pre-pay a monthly OMNY card like with a MetroCard, since OMNY is structured as a pay-as-you-go system instead of upfront unlimited plans.