MTA activates first OMNY card vending machines

Oct. 31, 2023
Customers can use cash at the vending machines, as well as credit and debit cards and digital wallets to take advantage of OMNY's financial flexibility.

The Metropolitan Transportation Authority (MTA) has activated the first OMNY card vending machines. Customers can use cash at the vending machines, as well as credit and debit cards and digital wallets. Tappable OMNY cards provide cash customers a way to take advantage of OMNY’s financial flexibility and never spend more than $34 in seven days.

“Tap-and-go is the future of using our subway and bus system,” said MTA President of Construction & Development Jamie Torres-Springer. “Allowing cash-paying customers to easily get and refill OMNY cards is a great addition.”  

“Installing OMNY vending machines in subway stations makes it easier than ever for transit customers to leave MetroCard in the past and embrace the convenience of tapping, especially those who pay with cash to ride,” said New York City Transit President Richard Davey. “Our station agents are trained and ready to support customers who make the switch to OMNY so they can start tapping.”

Installation of OMNY vending machines in all 472 subway stations will continue through 2024. The first vending machines are available at the following stations:

  • 86 St. and Lexington Avenue 4, 5, 6​
  • Atlantic Avenue-Barclays Center 2, 3, 4, 5, B, D, N, Q, R ​​​​​​​​​
  • Bowling Green 4, 5
  • Fordham Road 4, B, D
  • Junction Boulevard 7

Customers have tapped into OMNY more than a billion times, with the billionth tap occurring on July 26. In the latest spring 2023 Customers Count Survey, OMNY posted a 79 percent fare payment satisfaction rate. MTA notes customers have tapped into all 472 subway stations and boarded 204 local bus routes and 31 express buses, and of the 195 countries that issue bank cards, OMNY has processed a card from each one.

“With over a billion taps, OMNY is proving to customers it is the most economical, secure and hassle-free option to ride,” said MTA Acting Chief Customer Officer Shanifah Rieara. “As we continue to rollout new features to customers, such as the vending machines, more and more New Yorkers and visitors alike can discover the convenience of OMNY firsthand.”