How to apply for Illinois Benefit Access Program — Free RTA Transit + License Plate Discount

Who it's for

The Benefit Access Program (administered by the Illinois Department on Aging) gives qualified seniors age 65+ and adults with disabilities a FREE RIDE TRANSIT BENEFIT on RTA-area transit (CTA, Pace, and Metra in the Chicago region) plus reduced fares downstate, AND a reduced ($24) license-plate registration fee. Means-tested: total gross income for the last tax year must be under $33,562 (1-person household), $44,533 (2-person), or $55,500 (3-person). Apply online at the Illinois Department on Aging Benefit Access portal; you then take approval to RTA (or your transit agency) for a Ride Free permit.

What you'll need

• Proof of age 65+ (or disability)
• Proof of Illinois residency
• Proof of prior-year gross income (under the household limit)
• Social Security number

Where to apply

What to say when you call

"Hello, I'm calling to ask about Illinois Benefit Access Program — Free RTA Transit + License Plate Discount. I'd like to know whether I may qualify, what documents I need, and whether I can apply online, by mail, by phone, or in person. I understand I may need proof of age 65+ (or disability), proof of Illinois residency, proof of prior-year gross income (under the household limit) — is anything else required? What is the best next step?"

Tip: have a pen ready, ask for the person's name, and write down any case or reference number they give you.

Step by step

1. Gather your required documents: proof of age 65 or older (such as a birth certificate or ID), proof of Illinois residency, proof of your prior-year gross household income, and your Social Security number.
2. Check that your total gross income from last year falls under the program limits: $33,562 for a 1-person household, $44,533 for a 2-person household, or $55,500 for a 3-person household.
3. Apply online through the Illinois Department on Aging Benefit Access portal, or call 1-800-252-8966 if you prefer to apply by phone.
4. After the Illinois Department on Aging approves your application, take your approval to the RTA or your local transit agency to receive your Ride Free permit.
5. Keep your approval documentation handy — the Ride Free permit for CTA, Pace, and Metra rides (or reduced fares downstate) is issued by the transit agency after state approval, not directly by the Department on Aging.
6. Watch for renewal notices and renew your benefit according to the program's multi-year renewal schedule to avoid a lapse in coverage.

What to expect: After submitting your application, the Illinois Department on Aging will review your eligibility. Processing times vary, so contact the agency at 1-800-252-8966 for an estimate. Once approved, you will receive confirmation that you can bring to the RTA or your local transit agency to obtain your Ride Free permit, which gives you free rides on CTA, Pace, and Metra in the Chicago region (or reduced fares downstate). Approved participants also receive a reduced $24 license-plate registration fee. The Benefit Access Program operates on a multi-year renewal cycle, so watch for renewal notices and complete the renewal process on time to keep your benefits active.

Renewals

renew per program rules (multi-year)