If you’re among the one-third of Singaporeans still using NETS FlashPay cards or EZ-Link adult cards for public transportation, here’s some important news.
Starting from 1 June, these two payment methods will no longer be accepted.
The Land Transport Authority (LTA) announced this change in a media statement on Tuesday (9 January 2024).
NETS FlashPay cards and EZ-Link adult cards that have not been upgraded to SimplyGo EZ-Link will no longer serve as valid fare payment options for public transport.
However, they can still be used for motoring-related transactions like Electronic Road Pricing (ERP) and parking fees.
To clarify the rationale behind this change, LTA explained that it’s part of their ongoing transition to the SimplyGo system, which was initially introduced in 2019.
As of 1 June, public transport adult fares will only be payable through SimplyGo-compatible cards.
If you are confused about why we need to transition to using SimplyGo, let us simplify it for you.
What is SimplyGo?
We’ve all encountered numerous advertisements at bus stops and MRT stations, encouraging people to adapt to the SimplyGo system.
Introduced in 2019 by the LTA, SimplyGo was designed to allow cardholders to conveniently check their fare history and top up their card balance through a mobile application while on the go.
One of the most notable features of SimplyGo is its compatibility with contactless bank cards for public transport.
It makes it so convenient as it allows you to access your cards through your Wallet via Apple Pay if you’re an iPhone user.
LTA has noted a growing trend in adopting SimplyGo payment methods, with approximately two out of every three adult fare transactions on public transport now being processed through the SimplyGo platform.
Here is a list of payment options that will continue to be accepted for public transport even after 1 June 2024:
- SimplyGo EZ-Link card
- Contactless bank cards (Mastercard, Visa, NETS)
- NETS Prepaid Card
- Credit/debit card added to mobile wallet (Apple Pay, Fitbit Pay, Garmin Pay, Google Pay and Samsung Pay)
To simplify, non-SimplyGo EZ-Link cards are like piggy banks that need regular top-ups, while SimplyGo EZ-Link cards are like bank accounts for seamless payments.
LTA assured that this change won’t impact most adult commuters, as they already use SimplyGo EZ-Link or contactless bank cards.
Commuters with concession cards, like seniors, students, Workfare Transport Concession Scheme cardholders, and Persons with Disabilities, won’t be affected either.
How to Check If Your Card Is a SimplyGo EZ-Link Card
According to LTA’s website, you can easily confirm if your card is a SimplyGo EZ-Link card by tapping it in and out at fare gates and bus readers.
If it’s a SimplyGo EZ-Link card, you’ll see “SimplyGo” displayed.
How to Upgrade Your EZ-Link Cards to SimplyGo
If you’re still using the EZ-Link Adult Card, you can upgrade your existing card to the SimplyGo system, and you can keep your current card even after the upgrade.
You can visit any ticketing machine, SimplyGo Ticket Office, or Ticketing Service Centre to do this.
This upgrade option is available until 31 August 2024.
Starting from the end of March this year, EZ-Link adult cardholders who still need to upgrade to SimplyGo will receive prompts to do so when topping up their cards at ticketing machines.
Those still using the NETS FlashPay Card can exchange it for a free NETS Prepaid Card at SimplyGo Ticket Offices or Ticketing Service Centres.
The NETS Prepaid Card is compatible with SimplyGo for public transport use. This exchange period is open from 19 January to 18 July.
LTA encourages commuters to upgrade their existing EZ-Link cards to SimplyGo or switch to a credit/debit card sooner rather than later.
Additionally, commuters are encouraged to download the SimplyGo mobile app to enjoy the full benefits of the platform, including viewing fare transactions and remote card balance top-ups.
Those without the app can still check their travel transactions and card balances at ticketing machines.
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