How to apply for NFTA Metro — Bus + Rail + Paratransit Access Line (PAL) (Erie County) in New York

Who it's for

NFTA Metro — Bus + Rail + Paratransit Access Line (PAL) covers Erie County. NFTA-Metro Reduced Fare for riders age 65+, riders with disabilities, and Medicare cardholders (Reduced Fare card from the Reduced Fare Program, 716-855-6611). ADA paratransit available where fixed-route exists (NFTA's PAL service in Erie/Niagara). Apply at the county transit office or via the operator. Phone: 716-855-6611 (Reduced Fare Program).

What you'll need

• Proof of Erie County residency
• For reduced fare: proof of age 65+ (or Medicare card / disability documentation) for the NFTA Reduced Fare card
• For paratransit: ADA-eligibility certification

Where to apply

What to say when you call

"Hello, I'm calling to ask about NFTA Metro — Bus + Rail + Paratransit Access Line (PAL) (Erie 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 proof of Erie County residency, for reduced fare: proof of age 65+ (or Medicare card / disability documentation) for the NFTA Reduced Fare card, 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.

Step by step

1. Gather your required documents before applying. For the Reduced Fare card, you will need proof of Erie County residency and proof of age 65+, a Medicare card, or disability documentation. For paratransit (PAL) service, you will also need ADA-eligibility certification.
2. Choose how you want to apply. You can apply online or by phone. To apply by phone, call the NFTA Reduced Fare Program at 716-855-6611.
3. Submit your application and documents through your chosen method. If applying by phone, an NFTA representative will guide you through the process.
4. Wait for your Reduced Fare card or paratransit eligibility decision. Processing times vary — ask the NFTA representative for an estimate when you apply.
5. Once approved, pick up or receive your Reduced Fare card and begin using it on NFTA Metro Bus, Metro Rail, or PAL paratransit service in Erie County.

What to expect: After submitting your application, NFTA will review your documents and determine your eligibility. If approved for the Reduced Fare Program, you will receive an NFTA Reduced Fare card to use on Metro Bus and Metro Rail. If approved for PAL paratransit service, you will be certified under ADA guidelines to use that service where fixed-route transit exists in Erie and Niagara counties. The Reduced Fare card does not have a set expiration, but paratransit eligibility requires periodic re-certification — NFTA will notify you when recertification is due. If you have questions at any point, call the Reduced Fare Program at 716-855-6611.

Renewals

ongoing; paratransit re-cert periodically