How to Check My Metrocard Balance
Using Metrocard to pay for travel comes with lots of convenience and flexibility. When you check your Metrocard balance, you can know if it has enough funds to cover your upcoming trips, and plan your budget accordingly. Here’s a step-by-step guide on how to check my Metrocard balance:
Step 1: Find a Metrocard Vending Machine
The first step to check your Metrocard balance is to locate a Metrocard vending machine. Metrocard vending machines are located in a variety of locations including train stations, Metro-North stations, and other transportation hubs. You can also find vending machines in many stores, supermarkets, and other locations. The best way to find a vending machine is to search online or look for signs that indicate Metrocard vending machines.
Step 2: Tap your Metrocard
Once you’ve located a Metrocard vending machine, the next step is to tap your Metrocard on the vending machine’s reader. This is usually located near the card reader. Tapping your Metrocard on the reader will activate the vending machine and allow you to start the check-balance process.
Step 3: Select the “Balance Inquiry” option
After you’ve tapped your Metrocard on the reader, the vending machine will display various options on its screen. From the displayed options, select the “Balance Inquiry” option. This will signal to the vending machine that you want to check your Metrocard balance.
Step 4: Insert Your Metrocard
Once you’ve selected the “Balance Inquiry” option, you’ll be prompted to insert your Metrocard. Insert your Metrocard into the designated slot. Depending on the type of vending machine, you may have to swipe the card or insert it vertically into the slot.
Step 5: Wait for the Machine to Process
Once you’ve inserted your Metrocard, the vending machine will begin to process the request. This processing may take a few seconds. Keep an eye out for any messages that may appear on the screen of the vending machine.
Step 6: Check Your Balance
Once the processing is complete, the vending machine will display your Metrocard balance. Make sure to check the balance and make note of it. This will help you keep track of your card’s funds and plan accordingly.
Step 7: Select “Cancel”
Once you’ve checked your Metrocard balance, select the “Cancel” option. This will signal to the vending machine that the transaction is complete and it will prompt you to remove your Metrocard.
Step 8: Retrieve Your Card
Finally, when the vending machine has finished processing the request, it will prompt you to remove your Metrocard. Carefully remove your card from the slot and keep it somewhere safe.
And that’s it! You’ve now successfully checked your Metrocard balance using a vending machine. If you have an internet-enabled device, you can also check your balance by logging into the official MTA website and checking the ‘My Account’ page.
