NEW YORK (PIX11) -- The MTA is accepting applications for drivers and vehicles that may qualify for a discount or exemptions when congestion pricing starts on Sunday, Jan. 5.
There are seven categories of exemptions: a low-income discount, a low-income tax credit for New York state residents, disability exemptions, an organizational disability exemption plan, an emergency vehicle exemption, a bus exemption, and an exemption for government-owned vehicles.
To participate in this plan, car owners must make $50,000 or less a year or be part of a federal aid program. Applicants must show a copy of their tax form and proof of participation in a food assistance or family aid program.
For more information on how to apply, click here.
This plan is for residents within the congestion relief zone. Their New York State adjusted gross income must be under $60,000 to qualify.
The congestion relief zone will be located in Manhattan, south of and including 60th Street, excluding the FDR Drive, West Side Highway, and the Hugh L. Carey Tunnel connections to West Street, according to the 311 website.
For more information on how to apply, click here.
There are two types of disability exemptions: an individual disability exemption plan and an organizational disability exemption plan.
The individual disability exemption - is available for individuals with disabilities and health conditions that prevent them from using public transportation. Click here for more information on how to apply for this plan.
The organizational disability exemption plan is available for organizations operating a vehicle that transports people with disabilities. Examples of these vehicles are Access-A-Ride, ambulette services, and vehicles that operate for special educational services, according to the MTA. For more information on this plan and how to apply, click here.
The MTA stated that New York State vehicles and traffic law vehicles may apply for this plan. For information on how to apply, click here.
Qualifying emergency vehicles include:
According to the MTA, this plan applies to buses contracted with the Department of Education and other qualifying vehicles. For more information on how to apply, click here.
This plan is for vehicles specifically designed to perform public works other than general transportation. For more information on this plan and how to apply it, click here.
Matthew Euzarraga is a multimedia journalist from El Paso, Texas. He has covered local news and LGBTQIA topics in the New York City Metro area since 2021. He joined the PIX11 Digital team in 2023. You can see more of his work here.
