[Published: Dec. 10, 2020; Updated: Jan. 27, 2021]
Clipper START is a pilot program that offers single-ride transit fare discounts for eligible low-income individuals in the San Francisco Bay Area.
Among 21 participating transit systems, Clipper START discounts are available on:
- BART (20% discount),
- Muni (50% discount),
- Caltrain (50% discount),
- SamTrans (50% discount),
- AC Transit (20 % discount), and
- Golden Gate Transit and Ferry (50% discount).
How it works
Launched in July 2020, Clipper START is an 18-month pilot program that is available to anyone, including non-Stanford affiliates, provided they meet certain eligibility requirements. Eligible participants apply and provide proof of identity and income.
Among the four qualifications, participants must have an annual household income of 200% of the federal poverty level or less (for example, as of December 2020, $52,400 or less for a four-person household would qualify).
Once approved, participants will receive a personalized Clipper card printed with their name and the discount pre-loaded. Cash value will need to be loaded on the card, either online or at these locations, to ride participating operators. The card calculates single-ride fare discounts automatically when it is used.
If you have questions about the program, or would like to promote this option among your employees and contractors, you can contact us at commuteclub@stanford.edu or through the Clipper START Interest Response form.
