How to get free or discounted scooter rides with your EBT card

If you’re an EBT cardholder looking to save money on transportation, you may be able to get free or discounted rides on e-scooters or e-bikes thanks to programs like Lime Access (and in some cities, other comparable offers from similar rental companies).

Lime Access is a fare-discount program that gives eligible riders access to lower cost or even free rides on Lime’s e-scooters and e-bikes.

Lime access and similar programs are designed for people who participate in public benefits programs like SNAP, Medicaid, and TANF, among others.

Here's how the Lime Access program works and who qualifies.

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How does Lime Access work?#how-does-lime-access-work

To use Lime Access, you’ll need a Lime account (and you’ll need to live in a city with Lime scooters or e-bikes). After you apply and are approved for Lime Access, your account is automatically marked for the discounted “access” rate.

• That means whenever you use Lime to rent a scooter or e-bike, you’ll pay a much lower fare, or in some cities, ride free for a set amount of time.
• To make sure you always get your discount, ride only within your city’s approved service area, follow any mileage or time limits, and double check the rate before you start a trip.
• In some places, you’ll be required to renew or reverify your eligibility each year, so make sure your access hasn’t expired.
• Once you have an account you can use Lime Access for discounted or free rides by using the Lime app to start rides and see local pricing.

If you don’t have a smartphone, you can text +1 (888) 495-5014 to unlock an e-bike or e-scooter and follow the prompts. Where you live determines what you pay, but in most cities, Lime Access riders pay far less than the standard rate.

Who qualifies for free or low-cost scooter rides with Lime Access?#who-qualifies-for-free-or-low-cost-scooter-rides-with-lime-access

Generally, you are eligible for Lime Access if you receive need-based public assistance including:

• SNAP (also called food stamps)
• Medicaid
• Reduced-rate utility bill programs (like CARE in California)
• Free or reduced school lunch program (NSLP)
• Reduced transit fare program
• Social Security Supplemental Income
• WIC
• Federal, state, or local subsidized housing
• A Federal Pell grant

How to sign up for Lime Access#how-to-sign-up-for-lime-access

To sign up for a Lime account and get discounted rides through Lime Access:

1. Find the Lime Access application online and fill out the form
   1. Provide the required information:
   2. Status (what public benefits you receive)
   3. Full name and date of birth
   4. Address, email address, and phone number
2. After submitting the form, you may be asked to provide additional documentation like:
   1. Valid government-issued ID
   2. Benefits approval letter containing a date and your name
   3. A picture of your EBT card, Medicaid card, or other government benefit card
   4. A screenshot of your benefits portal showing the status
   5. A bank statement or screenshot showing deposit of a government benefit
3. Wait for approval. A third-party company handles the verification process so if you have trouble, you should contact their customer support directly