MCTS's old fare system is about to expire. Here's how to use the new one.
Milwaukee County Transit System will no longer accept M-Cards starting in October. More than 160,000 MCTS riders are already using the new fare system, WisGo card or Umo App. Still need to make the switch over to the new fare system?
Here's what you need to know.
When will your M-Card expire?
Starting Sunday, October 1, M-Cards will no longer be valid on MCTS buses. Riders with an existing balance on their M-Card can transfer their balance to their new WisGo card or Umo app by calling Customer Service at 414-937-3218.
Where can you get a new WisGo card?
New WisGo cards are available at over 75 locations through Milwaukee County, including Pick 'n Save, Metro Market, Community Financial and El Rey. For a full list, you can visit RideMCTS.com/WisGoLocations. MCTS is continually adding retail stores where you can buy a WisGo card, said spokesperson Anna Schryver. Riders should check back every week for additional locations.
Reduced fare card riders who haven't made the change to WisGo yet will need to come into a MCTS building to obtain a new card. If you're new to reduced fare, you'll need to apply for eligibility and come into a MCTS building to obtain a new card.
Riders coming from the airport are encouraged to download the app as there is no longer a card kiosk Milwaukee's Mitchell International Airport.
If you haven't made the switch to the new fare system and still need help, you can contact customer service by calling 414-937-3218. For more information, visit RideMCTS.com/Fares.
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How to use the Umo App
As you're boarding an MCTS bus, scan your QR code in your app wallet on the WisGo validator on your left as you enter the bus. You'll hear a chime and a see a green light if your app is accepted, and a buzz and a red light if the app isn't accepting.
You can download the app from the Apple App Store or Google Play Store. Create an account on the Umo app to register your phone.
After you scan, you can board any MCTS bus with a free transfer for up to 90 minutes. If you board again after 90 minutes, you'll be charged again for a second fare. Fares are capped at $4 per day, $19.50 per week and $72 per month.
What other forms of payments can you still use?
Riders can pay using the Umo app, WisGo Card or cash. The adult regular fare for riders ages 12 to 64 is $2 per ride with fare capping at $4 per day.
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This article originally appeared on Milwaukee Journal Sentinel: MCTS M-Card system to expire October 2023; how to use WisGo Umo App
