Fare changes are coming on October 1, but a new reduced fare program may help eligible riders keep their transit costs down.
MTS and NCTD are launching the PRONTO Low-Income Fare Eligible (LIFE) program on October 1, 2026. If you’re currently enrolled in CalFresh, Medi-Cal or CalWORKs, you may qualify.
Let’s dive into what PRONTO LIFE is, how to find out if it’s the best reduced fare program for you, and how to apply.
What the heck is PRONTO LIFE?
This brand-new reduced fare program is for eligible riders actively enrolled in CalFresh, Medi-Cal, or CalWORKs. The reduced fares apply to Adult One-Way, Day, and Month passes
If you currently receive one of these benefits and you’re not already in an existing reduced fare program (like the Youth Opportunity Pass, College Pass, Senior, Disabled, Medicare, etc.) then this program will give you approximately a 15% discount when the new fares increases take effect on October 1.
How does PRONTO LIFE help me save money?
With PRONTO LIFE, eligible riders will continue paying pre-October 1, 2026 fare rates instead of the new fares taking effect this fall.
The first wave of fare changes will start on October 1, 2026 and will increase again on October 1, 2027.
PRONTO LIFE fares can be used on MTS and NCTD regional bus and Trolley services. They do not apply to COASTER, Rapid Express, Rural, Access or LIFT services.
Is PRONTO LIFE the best reduced fare program for me?
Maybe! There are several reduced fare programs that may be the best fit for you depending on your age and eligibility. Take our quick quiz to help you narrow down your options:
Still have questions? Contact PRONTO Support at 619-595-5636.
Ready to apply for PRONTO LIFE?
You figured out that PRONTO LIFE is the best choice for you. Here’s what you need to get started.
First, get your Verification of Benefits
You’ll need to grab a copy of your current Verification of Benefits Letter to show you’re enrolled in CalFresh, Medi-Cal or CalWORKs.
You can get a copy by:
- Going online: Sign in or create an account at BenefitsCal and download your Verification of Benefits Letter online
- Visiting in person: Stop into one of the HHSA's local Family Resource Centers
- Calling for help: Contact Access Customer Service Call Center at 1-866-262-9881 with questions about Family Resource Center programs and services
Still confused? Watch this video guide on how to download your Verification of Benefits from BenefitsCal.
Apply for PRONTO LIFE in two steps
Applications are now open and you can apply online, or in person at the MTS Transit Store at 12th & Imperial Transit Center.
Step One: Apply for your reduced fare
Apply for a reduced fare online or in-person at the MTS Transit Store or NCTD Customer Service Locations.
You’ll need:
- Verification of Benefits Letter
- A valid ID
Step Two: Submit an Authorization of Release of Information
After applying for PRONTO LIFE, you’ll need to submit an Authorization of Release of Information Form to the County of San Diego.
This step is really important! The County needs this form on file so it can verify your eligibility. Without it, your application cannot be approved.
There are three ways to submit the form:
- Submit online through the BenefitsCal website
- In-person by visiting any of the County of San Diego HHSA's local Family Resource Centers. Find an office: Family Resource Centers
- Download the Authorization of Release of Information Form and send via mail to:
Self Sufficiency Services
PO BOX 939043
SAN DIEGO, CA 92193-9043
or Fax to 619-236-9167
Still have questions? Check out the PRONTO LIFE FAQs or call PRONTO Support at 619-595-5636 for help.
If you’re still not sure whether PRONTO LIFE is the right reduced fare program for you, start with our reduced fare quiz to find the option that will best fit your needs.
