How can I get help paying for transportation?

SHA Transit Pass Program

The Seattle Housing Authority (SHA) Transit Pass is a partnership between SHA and the Seattle Department of Transportation (SDOT). Eligible SHA residents receive an unlimited-use ORCA card to take transit at no cost. The program will run through December 31, 2026.

ORCA cards are valid until December 31, 2026, regardless of the expiration date shown on an ORCA card reader. The system automatically updates the expiration date each year. Please continue to use your card as normal.

• Program Eligibility: Any SHA resident aged 19 or older who lives at an SHA-owned and managed property. Your name must be on the lease to receive an ORCA card. (View list of eligible properties)
   
• How to Apply: To apply, please fill out the SHA Transit Pass registration form. The form is also available in multiple languages. Contact us for registration assistance.
   
• Contact Info: Email TransitPass@seattlehousing.org | Call or text: 206-615-3551

View SHA Transit Pass Flyer 

King County Metro provides discounted transit programs:

ORCA Lift 

Offers reduced fares to riders with low income. 

Apply at Seattle/King County Public Health locations, or find other locations

Regional Reduced Fare Permit

Offers reduced fares on many public transportation systems to: 

• Seniors (age 65 or older)

• Riders with a disability (must apply in person)

How to apply

Free Youth Transit Pass

Transit is free for riders 18 and younger thanks to Move Ahead Washington, a statewide transportation funding package.

Riders aged 13 and older are encouraged to bring one of the following when they ride, if they have it:

• Youth ORCA card
• Current High School or Middle School Student ID

Click here for more information

DART Transit | Hopelink

Offers public transit in King and Snohomish Counties through Hopelink.

Request a DART ride

More information:

Call 2-1-1 to see if there are other transportation programs you might qualify for. 

How can I find out which bus route to take?

• Visit King County Metro’s TripPlanner   http://tripplanner.kingcounty.gov/  Type in your address and the address where you want to go for options on which route to take
   
• Download the app on your smartphone: http://metro.kingcounty.gov/trip-planner/mobile-apps/
   
• Call 206.553.3000 to speak to a staff member

How can I find driving directions?

Many websites offer customized driving direction tools that can be used online  or loaded onto a smart phone. Google.com is one example. 

What else can I do if I’ve already tried the ideas above and still have not found transportation that works for me?

• Community agencies or religious organizations you currently receive services from might able to help

• Family and friends might be willing to assist

• Ask your school or employer if they have transportation assistance discounts or programs

• Consider carpooling or vanpooling. Find info at ridershareonline.com

• Consider car or bike-sharing programs such as Prontocycleshare.com and Zipcar.com