How to apply for Marin Access Fare Assistance (MAFA) (Marin County) in California

Who it's for

Marin Access Fare Assistance (MAFA) helps Marin Access riders with low incomes pay for rides. Eligible riders get a mobility wallet loaded with $200 each month to use with transportation providers they choose, $300 a year for trips on local paratransit and Marin Access Shuttles ($150 on July 1 and January 1), and can ask for a free Marin Transit local bus pass on a Clipper card. Marin Access is for Marin County residents 65 and older, or with a disability that makes riding the regular bus hard. To qualify for MAFA you must also have Medi-Cal, or have yearly income at or below the Elder Index for your housing situation (for a single person: $32,088 if you own without a mortgage, $51,648 if you rent, $64,452 if you own with a mortgage). Enrollment now lasts 5 years. Call the Marin Access Travel Navigators at 415-454-0902, weekdays 10 a.m. to 4 p.m.

What you'll need

• Medi-Cal card, OR proof of income: most recent 3 paystubs, 3 financial assistance documents, most recent tax return showing AGI, or most recent year-end Social Security statement
• Marin Access enrollment (intake form)

Where to apply

What to say when you call

"Hello, I'm calling to ask about Marin Access Fare Assistance (MAFA) (Marin 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 medi-Cal card, OR proof of income: most recent 3 paystubs, 3 financial assistance documents, most recent tax return showing AGI, or most recent year-end Social Security statement, marin Access enrollment (intake form) — 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

every 5 years (current enrollees renewed through June 30, 2030)