Have a low income? You can now apply for an affordable OC Transpo pass

Ottawa residents with low incomes can now apply for OC Transpo's affordable monthly transit pass, which comes into effect April 1.

The EquiPass costs $57 per month, half the$113.75 cost ofa regular adult monthly pass. The passes expire within one to two years, based on eligibility.

There are severalsteps to apply:

1. Fill out an application. Application forms can be found on OC Transpo's website, but are also available by mail or in person atOC Transpocustomer service centres, City of Ottawa client service centres, City of Ottawa public libraries, the city's community and social support centres, and various community health and resource centres.
2. Submit the application. Forms can only be submitted in person or by mail. To submit in person,visitan OC Transpo customer service centre, City of Ottawa client service centre or community and social support centre, orthe Greenboro and Centennial library branches. To submit by mail, send to:OC Transpo, Attn: EquiPass Applications, 925 Belfast Rd., Ottawa, Ont.,K1G 0Z4.
   Applicants shouldreceive a letter with the status of their application within three weeks. It may take longer, depending on the number of applications received.To check on the status of anapplication, emailocinfo@octranspo.comor call613-741-4390 (TTY 613-741-5280).
3. Get your discount.If approved, bring the letter to any OC Transpo customer service centre for processing. Anyone without Presto cards will need to buy one. The cost is $6.
4. Buy the EquiPass. They can be purchased online, by phone,or in person at OC Transpocustomer service centres.