National Senior Citizens Day 

August 17, 2022

On August 21, 2022, we recognize National Senior Citizens Day.

This observance was established by Congress in 1988 during the Ronald Reagan presidency to recognize and honor the older adults in our society - both in our families and in our local communities.

Seniors play a critical role in society and often provide exemplary models of leadership to younger generations. Did you know over 4.5 million seniors serve as volunteers in various programs in every sector of society?

So today [and every day] please do your part to honor the seniors in your life [or on your bus or train or trolley] through acts of kindness [please remember to yield seats to seniors] and by spending extra time with - or volunteering to support - the elderly.

SEPTA cares for its senior citizens and offers senior riders - 65 and older - free transportation all day, every day with a valid SEPTA Key Senior Fare Card - thanks to funding by the Pennsylvania Lottery. By assuring that seniors have access to free public transit to travel to doctors, beauty shops, barbers, supermarkets, museums, and other destinations, SEPTA plays an integral role in aiding active aging and healthy longevity. 

Senior card usage is growing significantly - in fact - approximately 66,500 different SEPTA Key Senior Fare Cards are tapped on the system each month. This is equal to one out of ten trips! 

Seniors can apply for a SEPTA Key Senior Fare Card at:

SEPTA Headquarters (Lower Lobby)

1234 Market Street, Philadelphia, PA

Cards will be issued on the day of your appointment. Call 215-580-7800 for hours. Cards issued or renewed are by appointment only. Appointments can be made by phone or online.

• Call 215-580-7145 - press #6 Call Center Hours: Monday-Friday, 8:00 a.m. - 5:00 p.m.

• ONLINE: https://go.oncehub.com/septacct

You can also visit participating Pennsylvania Senate and House offices in Bucks, Chester, Delaware, Montgomery and Philadelphia counties (please check with your legislator).

If you come to 1234 Market you will receive your SEPTA Key Senior Fare Card that same day. If you prefer to go to your legislator's office, you will receive your card in the mail in approximately 4 weeks.

As a result of the coronavirus pandemic, all SEPTA Key Senior Fare Cards that expired between January 2020 and December 2022 have been extended until the same expiration month in 2023.