Kansas City Area Transportation Authority Partners with KCMO Health Department To Qualify Bus Riders for Reduced Fare

Posted on: Jun 24, 2026

Kansas City, Mo. (June 23, 2026) - The Kansas City Area Transportation Authority (KCATA) and the Kansas City, Missouri Health Department are joining forces to help educate the community on bus fares in KC and to qualify eligible people for reduced fare.

The public outreach event is Thursday, July 9, from 10 a.m. to 2 p.m.

Community members will have the opportunity to:

• Qualify for Reduced Fare (with proper identification) Renew their eligibility
• Learn how to set up a mobile account
• Meet with KCATA staff
• Get answers to questions about available transit services and benefits
• Apply for their Fountain Card, which is free for KCMO residents at the Health Department

Who Qualifies for Reduced Bus Fare?

People who qualify for a reduced bus fare include:

• Child or teen ages 6-18 (0 to 5 ride free)
• Adults 65 and over
• Medicare card holders
• Individuals who qualify for low-income assistance
• Individuals with Disabilities
• People can qualify at the event as long as they have proper documentation with them including: A copy of valid ID (state ID, driver's license, school ID, passport, Fountain Card, etc.)

Additional Documentation by Eligibility Category:

• Age 6-18: Proof of age (if not listed on valid ID)
• Age 65 and over: Proof of age (if not listed on valid ID)
• Low-Income: Proof of participation in income-based programs (SNAP, WIC, TANF, Medicaid, Section 8, LIHEAP in Missouri, or LIEAP in Kansas)
• Medicare Card Holders: Copy of Medicare card
• Disability: SSDI/SSI eligibility letter, Medicare card, Copy of VA disability verification letter (veterans only), proof of RideKC Freedom enrollment

KCATA accepts the Fountain Card as a valid form of identification for people who are trying to qualify for reduced fare. The Fountain Card is available for KCMO residents only and free of charge at the Health Department.

The event is designed to help eligible riders access reduced-fare transit options and learn more about the services available through KCATA.

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About KCATA: Congress established the Kansas City Area Transportation Authority (KCATA) in 1966, granting jurisdiction over a region spanning two states, seven counties and over 100 cities. KCATA utilizes its authority to enhance public transportation accessibility and broaden service options. This is achieved through a range of transportation services and the development of transit-oriented community development facility projects. The authority operates under the public-facing brand RideKC. In 2022, KCATA earned recognition as North America's top mid-sized transit agency. For more information, visit the KCATA website at ridekc.org.

Contact:

Kiona Sinks
Director of Marketing & Communications
Email: [email protected]