
If you’re an Illinois senior who relies on public transportation in Chicago, there’s a critical detail you can’t afford to overlook. Many older adults assume free rides on buses and trains are automatic once they turn 65—but that’s no longer the case. Missing one key enrollment step could mean paying out of pocket for trips that used to be free. With costs rising everywhere, even small transit expenses can add up quickly on a fixed income. Here’s what you need to know to protect your access to free rides and avoid unnecessary financial strain.