Introducing Fare Checks
The MBTA’s Fare Engagement department will be introducing fare checks to the T. This will roll out in phases. First, there will be an educational period, then, fare checks will begin.
Fare Engagement Representatives
In October 2024, trained Fare Engagement representatives started to educate riders about fare payment options and the upcoming fare check process on the Green Line. They have expanded to Back Bay station and will be at other stations in the near future. You can recognize them by their green polo shirts with the yellow Fare Engagement logo.
Before fare checks begin, Fare Engagement representatives can:
- Assist riders with fare vending machines
- Answer questions about contactless payment in stations and onboard vehicles
- Provide riders with trip planning and accessible travel options
Once the educational period is completed, representatives will start fare checks. They may issue warnings or fines if you don’t pay your fare. Check back here to learn when this phase will begin.
How Fare Checks Will Work
Fare Engagement staff will have handheld devices to verify fare payment. To avoid bias during checks, staff will ask all riders onboard to verify their fare payment.
You can pay your fare using:
- Cash
- CharlieTicket or CharlieCard
- Contactless payment
Learn more about how to pay your fare
Note: We encourage riders who use cash to load a CharlieCard or validate their fare at a fare vending machine before boarding.
Riders who cannot afford full fare prices can check if they are eligible for reduced fare benefits.
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Contact Us
For questions and comments related to the Fare Engagement program, please contact us at publicengagement@mbta.com.
MBTA Policies
Everyone deserves to have a safe and comfortable experience with the MBTA. Please review the policies we follow to ensure that happens.
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MBTA Policies
Everyone deserves to have a safe and comfortable experience with the MBTA. Please review the policies we follow to ensure that happens.