Ottawa EquiPass: reduced OC Transpo fare and how to apply

OntarioTransitChecked October 23, 2026

The EquiPass is OC Transpo's reduced-fare pass for low-income Ottawa residents. It is about half the price of an adult pass.

How much

About half the cost of an adult monthly pass (about $58 a month; check OC Transpo's page for the current price), and about $1.75 per single ride.

When it's paid

Bought as a monthly pass or single fares at the reduced rate; not a cash payment.

Who qualifies

You live in the City of Ottawa
Your family income is below the low-income cut-off (LICO) threshold set each year by the Government of Canada
You do not receive transportation benefits from Social Services
Students with a U-Pass or school board pass generally do not qualify during the school year

How to apply

Check the EquiPass criteria on the OC Transpo reduced-fares page
Apply through OC Transpo's EquiPass process and provide income information
Contact OC Transpo at 613-560-5000, or use the contact details on the EquiPass page, to confirm your eligibility

What to have ready

Proof of Ottawa residency
Proof of household income
Proof of age if you are 65 or older (seniors are usually directed to the Seniors Pass)

Add to a printable checklist with other benefits

Common mistakes to avoid

Confusing the EquiPass with the Community Pass, which is for ODSP recipients
Using older articles that describe the previous Community Pass for low-income residents
Assuming students can use it during the school year while on a U-Pass

Still being confirmed: The LICO thresholds are updated each year, and OC Transpo's FAQ and reduced-fares page have shown different figures. Confirm the current threshold with OC Transpo before applying. Check the official page for the latest details.

Official sources

Last checked against these pages on October 23, 2026.

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BenefitCanada is independent and not affiliated with any government. This guide summarizes official sources in plain language; rules and amounts change, so always confirm on the official page before applying.