Transit fare assistance · regional
ORCA LIFT
King County Metro (regional ORCA partnership)
ORCA LIFT is a reduced-fare ORCA card available to income-qualified adults across Puget Sound. Most participating agencies (King County Metro, Sound Transit Link/Sounder/ST Express, Community Transit local & Swift, Everett Transit, Seattle Streetcar, King County Water Taxi) charge $1.00 per ride or a $36.00 PugetPass. Some services have higher LIFT fares (DART paratransit $2.50; Westbound Kitsap Fast Ferry $6.50; Monorail $2.00). The card itself is free; riders load funds or a pass to pay the reduced fare.
Who qualifies
Adult (age 19+) AND gross household income at or below 200% of the federal poverty level. Automatic categorical eligibility: anyone currently enrolled in Apple Health (Medicaid), Washington Basic Food (SNAP / EBT), or WIC qualifies regardless of income verification. Posted 2026 200% FPL monthly thresholds: 1 person $2,660; 2 people $3,607; 3 people $4,553; 4 people $5,500; 5 people $6,447; 6 people $7,393; 7 people $8,340; 8 people $9,287.
What it covers
Reduced single-ride and PugetPass fares on participating Puget Sound transit agencies. Typical fare $1.00 per ride and $36.00 monthly PugetPass. Card is free at issuance; riders must add e-purse or pass value before riding.
Cost
Card is free; reduced fares apply. Income limits captured as 200% FPL monthly thresholds (2026, posted on Metro page).
How to apply
Apply online via the Reduced Fare Portal at reducedfare.kingcounty.gov, in person at an authorized enrollment office, or by phone with the Community Health Access Program (CHAP). Bring proof of income (paystubs, tax return, EBT/Apple Health/WIC enrollment letter, etc.) and government-issued photo ID.
Apply by phone
(800) 756-5437
Apply online
kingcounty.gov/en/dept/metro/fares-and-payment/reduced-fares/orca-lift
Source kingcounty.gov/en/dept/metro/fares-and-payment/reduced-fares/orca-lift