How to apply for TCAT (Tompkins Consolidated Area Transit) + Gadabout Paratransit (Tompkins County) in New York

Who it's for

TCAT (Tompkins Consolidated Area Transit) runs the bus system in Tompkins County. Riders 60 and older and people with disabilities pay half fare: $0.75 a ride instead of $1.50. Show proof of age to the driver, such as a driver's license, Medicare card or Senior Citizen's Discount card. Reduced-fare Tcard smart cards can be requested by mail or fax from the TCAT office at 607-277-7433. Half fare does not apply to Gadabout or ADA paratransit, which serve riders who cannot use the regular bus.

What you'll need

• For half fare at 60+: driver's license or other official document showing date of birth, Medicare card, or Senior Citizen's Discount card
• For half fare with a disability: award letter from Social Security Disability, SSI, or Veterans Affairs benefits
• For paratransit: ADA-eligibility certification

Where to apply

What to say when you call

"Hello, I'm calling to ask about TCAT (Tompkins Consolidated Area Transit) + Gadabout Paratransit (Tompkins County). 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 for half fare at 60+: driver's license or other official document showing date of birth, Medicare card, or Senior Citizen's Discount card, for half fare with a disability: award letter from Social Security Disability, SSI, or Veterans Affairs benefits, for paratransit: ADA-eligibility certification — 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.

Renewals

ongoing; paratransit re-cert periodically