What Is OMNY?

OMNY (One Metro New York) is the city’s new contactless payment system for subways and buses. Instead of swiping a MetroCard or paying coins for buses, you can simply tap a credit card, smartphone, or smartwatch at the turnstile. It works much like Japan’s Suica or PASMO cards.

How OMNY Works

Using OMNY is fast and convenient. For example, just hold your iPhone with Apple Pay near the OMNY reader at the subway gate, and you’re in—no swiping or waiting in line.

There are three main ways to use OMNY:

1. Tap with Your Bank Card or Credit Card

Any contactless bank card or credit card with a microchip can be used to enter the subway or bus. No more worrying about refilling a MetroCard.

2. Pay with Your Smartphone or Smartwatch

Use Apple Pay, Google Pay, or another mobile wallet. Just tap your phone or watch, and you’re good to go.

3. Buy an OMNY Card

For those who prefer not to use a credit card or phone, OMNY cards are available at CVS, Walgreens, and 7-Eleven. Load them with cash or card and use them just like a MetroCard.

OMNY Card: Where to Buy and Why It’s Useful

The OMNY Card is perfect for people who don’t have a smartphone or prefer cash payments. You can purchase one at major retailers like CVS and 7-Eleven.
While not yet as common as MetroCards, OMNY cards are expected to become more popular as MetroCards are gradually phased out.

MetroCard vs. OMN

Before the pandemic, many commuters used the Unlimited MetroCard ($127 per month). But for those who now ride the subway fewer days a week, OMNY is more flexible.

• Daily riders: Unlimited MetroCard may still be the better deal.
• Occasional riders: OMNY lets you pay only when you ride.

👉 According to the MTA, MetroCards will be discontinued in the coming years.

Subway Safety and Cleanliness with OMNY

New York’s subway is busier and safer than during the pandemic, with more police presence. Still, OMNY offers two big advantages:

• Safety: No fumbling with MetroCards at the gate, which reduces risks of being targeted.
• Hygiene: You avoid touching MetroCard vending machines and PIN pads that thousands of people use daily—important after COVID-19.

Save Time and Money with OMNY

• Faster commutes: No more waiting in line to buy or refill MetroCards.
• Weekly cap: After 12 OMNY rides in one week (about $33), the rest of your rides are free until Sunday night. Just remember to use the same device or OMNY card for the rides to count.
• Cashback perks: For example, Apple Card users get 2% cashback when paying with Apple Pay.

Is There an OMNY App?

Currently, there is no dedicated OMNY app. Payments are made directly with your card, phone, or OMNY card. However, you can register on the MTA OMNY website to track your trips and payment history.

OMNY and Citi Bike: Different Systems

Don’t confuse OMNY with Citi Bike. They are separate services and payments are not connected. If you exit the subway and rent a Citi Bike, you’ll need to pay separately.

For bus riders, OMNY also supports free transfers—learn more here:

Conclusion

OMNY is New York City’s future of public transit payments. Whether you use a credit card, smartphone, or OMNY card, you can now skip MetroCards and ride the subway and buses more safely, quickly, and hygienically. For tourists and locals alike, OMNY makes commuting smoother than ever.