How to apply for Columbia County Free Senior Rides (Office for the Aging) + Public Transportation (Columbia County) in New York

Columbia County Office for the Aging (free senior rides) and Columbia County Public Transportation (run by Johnston Transportation)

Who it's for

Columbia County residents age 60 and over can get free non-medical rides from the Columbia County Office for the Aging to stores, banks, pharmacies, nursing home visits, county agencies and senior meal sites, mostly within the county. The Office for the Aging also runs special trips. Riders who need help must bring a companion. To book a ride, call 518-828-4258, ext. 1. Anyone can also ride Columbia County Public Transportation's Chatham-Hudson bus route (Tuesdays and Fridays) for $1.00 per boarding; the bus will go up to 3/4 mile off the route for riders who cannot reach a stop if you call 518-672-4901 by 4 p.m. the day before.

Free Office for the Aging rides are for Columbia County residents 60 and over. The public bus is open to everyone at $1.00 per boarding; no separate senior bus fare is published.

People who qualify for one senior program often qualify for others. See everything you may qualify for — free, no SSN, about five minutes.

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What you'll need

  • Call the Office for the Aging to book a ride (518-828-4258, ext. 1)
  • Riders who need help getting around must travel with a companion

Where to apply

Apply online: official application

By phone: 518-828-4258

What to say when you call

"Hello, I'm calling to ask about Columbia County Free Senior Rides (Office for the Aging) + Public Transportation (Columbia 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 call the Office for the Aging to book a ride (518-828-4258, ext. 1), riders who need help getting around must travel with a companion — 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

Official source →Last verified · October 12, 2026

Not sure if you qualify? Run a free check first.

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Not legal or financial advice. The agency makes the final eligibility decision.