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Sound Transit Launches Contactless ORCA Pay As You Go

  //travel-leisure.news-articles.net/content/2026/ .. sit-launches-contactless-orca-pay-as-you-go.html
  Published in Travel and Leisure on Friday, February 20th 2026 at 21:57 GMT by KIRO-TV
      Locales: Washington, UNITED STATES

Seattle, WA - February 21, 2026 - Sound Transit is poised to significantly streamline the rider experience with the launch of ORCA Pay As You Go, a new fare payment system debuting this Monday. This innovative approach eliminates the need to pre-load funds onto ORCA cards, replacing it with a seamless, automatic payment system linked directly to riders' credit or debit cards.

For years, commuters relying on Sound Transit's Link light rail, bus network, and Tacoma Link streetcar have navigated the traditional ORCA card system, requiring regular trips to reload funds or utilize mobile apps for top-ups. This process, while functional, often presented a hurdle to convenient transit use. ORCA Pay As You Go aims to dismantle that barrier, mirroring the tap-and-go payment solutions increasingly prevalent in other urban transit systems globally.

"We're constantly working to make taking transit easier for everyone, and ORCA Pay as you Go is a big step in that direction," stated Sound Transit CEO Julie Atkinson during a press conference earlier today. "We've listened to rider feedback and recognized the demand for a more flexible and intuitive fare payment option. This system provides just that - convenience, accessibility, and a smoother overall journey."

How ORCA Pay As You Go Works

The system operates by allowing riders to register a credit or debit card with their existing ORCA card account. Once linked, the card is automatically charged for each ride taken on Sound Transit services. Riders can manage their linked payment methods, view ride history, and set spending limits through the ORCA website or mobile app. Sound Transit assures riders that the system adheres to stringent security protocols to protect financial information. They are using end-to-end encryption and tokenization to secure card data.

While ORCA Pay As You Go is the headline feature, Sound Transit is also emphasizing that traditional payment methods will remain available. Cash will continue to be accepted on buses, and riders can still load value onto their ORCA cards through existing channels. This ensures that the transition to the new system is inclusive and does not disadvantage riders who prefer or require alternative payment options.

The Broader Impact: Encouraging Ridership & a Future of Integrated Mobility

The introduction of ORCA Pay As You Go is more than just a payment upgrade; it's a strategic move intended to boost ridership and support Sound Transit's long-term goals for a more accessible and sustainable transportation network. Analysts predict that a frictionless payment experience will reduce perceived barriers to transit use, especially for infrequent riders or those new to the system.

"The small friction of reloading a card can deter some potential riders," explains Dr. Eleanor Vance, a transportation economist at the University of Washington. "Removing that friction, even slightly, can have a measurable impact on ridership numbers. It's about making transit as effortless as possible."

Furthermore, ORCA Pay As You Go sets the stage for future integration with other regional transportation providers. The ORCA (One Regional Card for All) system was initially conceived as a unified fare payment solution across multiple agencies in the Puget Sound region. With the advent of automatic payment methods, the prospect of seamless travel between buses, trains, ferries, and even bike-share programs is becoming increasingly realistic.

Sound Transit has been collaborating with other regional transportation authorities, including the Washington State Ferries and King County Metro, to explore expanding ORCA Pay As You Go to cover a broader spectrum of transportation options. A pilot program integrating ORCA Pay As You Go with the regional bike-share network is expected to launch in the spring of 2027.

Challenges and Considerations

While the ORCA Pay As You Go system is largely seen as a positive development, some concerns have been raised regarding potential service fees associated with credit card transactions. Sound Transit has stated that they are working to minimize any fees passed on to riders. Additionally, ensuring equitable access for unbanked individuals remains a priority, and Sound Transit will continue to support existing cash payment options. They are also investigating options for prepaid debit cards that can be used with the system.

The launch of ORCA Pay As You Go marks a significant step forward in modernizing public transportation in the Puget Sound region. By embracing innovative payment technologies, Sound Transit is not only enhancing the rider experience but also paving the way for a more integrated and sustainable transportation future.