Do you get charged if you don't tap off?

The Price of Forgetfulness: What Happens When You Don’t Tap Off Your Transit Card?

We’ve all been there. Lost in thought, rushing to an appointment, or simply preoccupied – and suddenly, you’re off the train or bus, completely forgetting to tap off your transit card. While the momentary lapse might seem insignificant, the consequences can surprisingly impact your wallet.

The simple act of tapping off your transit card isn’t just a polite gesture; it’s crucial for accurate fare calculation. Failing to do so triggers a system default: your fare is automatically calculated to the furthest point on that particular line. This means you’ll end up paying for a journey significantly longer than the one you actually took.

This isn’t a punitive measure; it’s a necessary system design to prevent fare evasion. If tapping off wasn’t mandatory, individuals could simply tap on and never tap off, effectively receiving free or heavily discounted rides. The “farthest point” calculation ensures the transit authority receives the revenue it’s due, even if the passenger forgets to complete the process.

However, it’s important to note that your usual fare type and any existing discounts, such as student or senior passes, will still be applied. The overcharge isn’t based on a flat rate or a penalty fee; rather, it’s simply the difference between your actual journey and the maximum possible journey on that line, calculated according to your existing fare structure.

For example, if your usual fare is $2.50 for a short trip and you forget to tap off, and the maximum fare on that line is $7.00, you’ll be charged $7.00 (although your student discount will still be applied if applicable). The overcharge isn’t a penalty; it simply reflects the maximum possible fare for that line.

Therefore, while the financial consequence of forgetting to tap off isn’t catastrophic, it’s certainly avoidable. Developing a habit of tapping off, even when rushing, can save you money in the long run. Consider setting a reminder on your phone, or using a transit app that automatically tracks your journey and reminds you to tap off. A little mindfulness can go a long way in avoiding this often-overlooked transit expense. Remember, a simple tap can save you from a surprising charge at the end of your journey.