Metra to waive refund fees on monthly passes as commuters staying home

With commuters forced to stay home due to the new coronavirus, Metra is waiving its $5 handling fee for monthly pass refunds.

Under Metra policy, monthly passes are refunded on a percentage basis depending on the date returned, and refunds are prohibited after the 18th day of the month. All Metra passes submitted for refund by Monday will be refunded as if the last day of use was Friday, the railroad said in a statement.

Metra is not permitted to issue direct refunds on passes purchased through a tax-deferred transit benefit program. Customers using these programs must submit their refund requests through their employer or program provider.

Spokesman Michael Gillis could not say how many riders the Metra expects to lose because of COVID-19 concerns.

With the exception of those participating in transit benefit programs and those who ride the lines operated by the Union Pacific Railroad with a paper ticket, riders may request a refund by going to a Metra ticket agent, using the “Contact Us” form on Metra’s website metrarail.com or by calling 312-542-8398.