PATH to Stop Accepting SmartLink Cards and MetroCards on Sept. 1, 2026
3 min read
Quick Answer
If you ride PATH trains, you will no longer be able to use SmartLink Cards or MetroCards starting September 1, 2026. Instead, you'll need to pay with a TAPP Card, a contactless credit or debit card, or a smartphone or wearable device with a digital wallet.
The Port Authority of New York and New Jersey is continuing to modernize the PATH fare payment system by retiring SmartLink Cards and MetroCards after years of service. The move is part of the agency's transition to its contactless payment system, TAPP.
When Will SmartLink Cards and MetroCards Stop Working?
PATH has designated August 31, 2026, as the final day riders can use SmartLink Cards and MetroCards. Beginning September 1, 2026, fare gates will no longer accept these cards, and all riders must use one of the new payment methods.
What Payment Methods Will Be Accepted?
After the transition, riders can pay their fare with:
- A TAPP Card.
- Any contactless credit or debit card.
- A smartphone or wearable device with a digital wallet.
PATH also confirmed that it does not accept the Metropolitan Transportation Authority's OMNY card.
What Happens if You Still Have a Remaining Balance?
If you are unable to use the full balance on your SmartLink Card or MetroCard before September 1, 2026, PATH advises customers to contact the TAPP Customer Call Center at 1-800-234-PATH (7284) to request that the remaining balance be transferred to a new TAPP Card.
According to PATH's official information, some details about transferring certain types of balances—particularly MetroCard balances—have not been fully explained. Riders are encouraged to contact PATH directly for official confirmation.
Virtual Information Sessions for Riders
PATH will host two virtual public information sessions on August 12 and August 19, 2026, to answer riders' questions and explain how the transition to the new payment system will work.
Background on the TAPP System
TAPP, short for Total Access PATH Payment, is PATH's new contactless fare payment system. Testing began in 2023, before the system was launched at selected stations in 2024. In December 2025, PATH introduced the reloadable TAPP Card as an option for riders who prefer not to use bank cards or digital wallets.
PATH has also stated that TAPP fare gates do not accept SmartLink Cards or MetroCards. During the transition period, riders using the legacy fare cards had to use the traditional fare gates until the final phase-out date.
The current full one-way PATH fare is $3.25. TAPP also offers discounted per-trip pricing through select fare packages, along with unlimited daily, weekly, and monthly passes. Reduced fares remain available for eligible seniors and riders with qualifying disabilities.
According to some local reports, additional details regarding balance transfers and transfer deadlines still require official clarification from PATH, as some reports differ on the final deadline for completing balance transfers.
Written by Shindy
Researcher covering U.S. news since 2011.
Frequently Asked Questions
Q: When do SmartLink Cards and MetroCards stop working on PATH?
A: The final day to use them is August 31, 2026. PATH will no longer accept them beginning September 1, 2026.
Q: What payment methods will be accepted after that?
A: Riders can use a TAPP Card, a contactless credit or debit card, or a smartphone or wearable device with a digital wallet.
Q: What should I do if I still have money left on my card?
A: PATH recommends contacting the TAPP Customer Call Center at 1-800-234-PATH (7284) to ask about transferring your remaining balance to a TAPP Card.
Q: Does PATH accept OMNY?
A: No. PATH has confirmed that the OMNY fare payment system is not accepted on its network.
Q: Will PATH provide additional information to riders?
A: Yes. PATH has scheduled virtual public information sessions on August 12 and August 19, 2026, to answer riders' questions about the transition.
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