Clipper START

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Clipper START is an 18 month pilot program providing single ride fare discounts on a Clipper card to adults (ages 19-64) with a gross annual income at or below 200% of the Federal Poverty level.

This fare provides users 50% off Muni single ride fares, as well as discounts on other Bay Area providers (listed below). Cable cars are excluded from the discount fare. 

How to Qualify

Adults, ages 19-64, living in the Bay Area who meet the income limits below qualify for the START discount. 

When applying, you will be asked to provide one of the following proofs of income:

  • Electronic Benefits Transfer (EBT) card;
  • Medi-Cal card;
  • A benefits eligibility letter from your County;
  • Your Muni Lifeline ID number; or
  • A copy of last year's federal tax return

Income Limits

Household Size 1 2 3 4 5 6
Annual Income $30,120 $40,880 $51,640 $62,400 $73,160 $83,920

Add $10,760 for each additional household member above six.  

How To Apply

Online - Complete the online application.

Using Your Clipper START Card

Once approved, you will receive a Clipper Card in the mail with the discount pre-loaded. You will need to load cash value on this card to ride Muni and the other participating operators. 

Your Clipper START card can be used on any of the Bay Area Transit providers. Discounts vary based by provider. Visit the Clipper website for more information on carriers and discounts.

  • 50% off Muni
    • discount is not available on cable cars
  • 50% all other Bay Area Transit providers

Add cash value to your card online or at these locations.

Once you are in possession of your Free Muni Clipper Card you can transfer it to your phone on the Clipper App

 

Transit Citation Dismissal

If you are applying for the Clipper START for the first time and your application is accepted, your last transit citation issued within 30 days of enrollment is eligible for dismissal. Please provide a citation or ID number and from the citation and the Clipper card number you received for the Clipper START program when protesting.  

You can protest your citation online.

Clipper®
$1.25