How to Pay for MRT & Buses in Singapore (SimplyGo & EZ-Link)

Introduction

Figuring out how to pay for your MRT or bus ride in Singapore can be a bit of a maze. You’ve got traditional cards, bank cards with SimplyGo, mobile wallets and it’s easy to feel lost. Whether you’re visiting for the first time, settling in, coming back after a while, or even studying here, knowing how each system works will save you from a lot of confusion.

This guide breaks down everything you need to know to get around on Singapore’s trains and buses without a hitch. Whether you’re sorting through payment cards or figuring out the SimplyGo app, you’ll find clear answers here. No more guessing at the gantry or stressing about surprise charges, by the end, you’ll be tapping in and out like you’ve lived here forever. We’ll also help you decide what option works best, depending on how often you travel and how you prefer to pay.

Understanding Singapore’s Public Transport Payment Landscape

The MRT and buses are part of one big system run by the Land Transport Authority (LTA), so you can hop between them using just one card. Whether you’re changing trains or moving from bus to train, your fare is calculated based on the full trip. The system figures out the shortest route for you, which keeps things fair and you won’t need to worry about paying more when switching lines..

Want to know where to get your MRT card? Check out our detailed guide on where to buy MRT cards in Singapore.

The Evolution of MRT and Bus Payments

In the past, getting around Singapore meant buying paper tickets or tokens, which weren’t exactly convenient. You’d often end up stuck in queues just to get a ticket and switching between buses and trains meant paying all over again. To fix that, stored-value cards like EZ-Link and NETS FlashPay came in. They totally changed how people got around, making it way easier and faster to tap and go, no matter what transport you took.

EZ-Link cards quickly became part of daily life, easy to reload, easy to use, and accepted almost everywhere. People relied on them for years. But as tech got better, so did the way we wanted to travel. No one wanted to line up at machines just to top up anymore. That shift toward digital and convenience opened the door for a better system, one that let you track your rides, avoid top-ups, and link everything through your phone: SimplyGo.

SimplyGo changed the payment method for travel. Now, rather than topping up a card, you can simply tap your contactless debit or credit card or phone wallet, no need to top up. It takes the fare directly out of your account either immediately or all at once later. And if you enjoy monitoring how much you spend, the SimplyGo website and app do all the breakdown for you so that you can view each ride, each charge, and see it your way.

SimplyGo’s tap-and-go convenience greatly simplifies travel throughout Singapore. No need for top-ups or paper tickets, just use your contactless card or mobile wallet and you’re set. Everything is digital, so you can easily manage your account at any time, see where you’ve been, and see how much each ride costs. Comparing that type of access to looking for coins or standing in top-up lines makes commuters feel more at ease and makes the entire experience seem much more modern and simple to use.

With the rapid development of Singapore’s transportation system, SimplyGo has emerged as the preferred option. Although the more recent, account-linked EZ-Link cards are slowly overtaking the older ones, the older ones still function. Officials have stated clearly that digital is the way of the future. This implies fewer lines, less waiting, and greater control over your life. It’s all about making commuting easier and giving people the flexibility to manage everything from their phones, without needing to rely on machines or old systems anymore.

Choosing Payment Methods: A Complete Comparison

Let’s break down the core payment methods you can use on Singapore’s public transport, including their pros, cons, and who they’re best suited for.

Stored Value vs. Account-Based Payments

Older EZ-Link cards require frequent top-ups because they deduct fares directly from funds you have already added to the card. You’ll see your updated balance each time you tap in or out at the gate.On the other hand, SimplyGo links your credit card to an account and then subtracts the cost of your ticket after you’ve left. If you enjoy keeping track of where your money is going, the SimplyGo app or website allows you to view all of your trips and charges, even though you won’t be able to see your balance on the screen.

From your computer or phone, you can effortlessly view your past spending and travel history by using an account-based setup. Anyone who wants a payment method that operates in the background and is at ease with technology will find it ideal. No machines, no top-ups. However, that is not to everyone’s personal preference. Given their ease of use, some people still prefer stored-value cards, particularly those who don’t use online banking or who simply want something quick and simple without having to deal with apps or other digital tools.

For certain groups, such as schoolchildren or senior citizens using concession passes, stored-value cards are still useful. These are loaded with advantages and sometimes only accessible in the stored-value format. It’s fortunate that both systems are still in place even though SimplyGo is growing in popularity. In this manner, users can select the approach that best suits their habits and way of life, whether they prefer a simple card that they can tap and top up or complete app control.

Comparison Table of MRT & Bus Payment Methods

Payment Method	How it Works	Key Features	Pros	Cons	Best For
SimplyGo-enabled Credit/Debit Cards	Tap with Visa, Mastercard, AMEX contactless cards. Charged directly to bank account.	No top-up needed. Use app for ride history.	Convenient. No need for extra card.	Foreign transaction fees possible. No balance display at gantry.	Tourists, commuters with bank cards.
SimplyGo Physical Cards	Tap with select new EZ-Link or NETS FlashPay cards. Linked to SimplyGo account.	Top-up via app or machines. App tracking.	Combines physical card ease with app benefits.	Requires linking and setup.	Daily commuters preferring a transport-dedicated card.
Older EZ-Link Cards	Tap and pay from stored value. Manual top-up required.	Balance shows at gantry.	Familiar, reliable. Balance visible instantly.	No digital tracking. Being phased out.	Long-time residents. Occasional users.
SimplyGo Mobile App	Use NFC on phone via Apple Pay/Google Pay linked to a card.	Digital tap-and-go. App tracking.	Highly convenient. All-in-one digital management.	Needs compatible device. Phone battery critical.	Tech-savvy users. Mobile wallet fans.
Standard Tickets	Buy single-trip tickets at machines.	One-time use. Paper-based.	Simple, no card needed.	Slightly costlier. Less eco-friendly.	Tourists taking very few rides.

This table can be used to compare which option best fits your lifestyle or travel purpose. For example, a business traveler staying in Singapore for only two days might find that using their Visa card via SimplyGo offers the fastest and least complicated experience, while a university student commuting daily may opt for a physical SimplyGo-linked card to better track spending and manage budgeting.

Using SimplyGo: Your Primary Payment Method

SimplyGo has become the cornerstone of Singapore’s modern public transport payment system. Designed with user convenience in mind, SimplyGo eliminates the need for top-ups and provides enhanced transparency through app-based tracking. Let’s explore how to fully utilize this powerful tool and the different ways you can access it.

What is SimplyGo and Why is it Being Promoted?

SimplyGo is a newer ticketing system rolled out by Singapore’s Land Transport Authority (LTA). Instead of topping up a card like before, SimplyGo links your credit or debit card or even your phone wallet directly to your transport fare. Every time you ride, the system tracks your trips and pulls the fare either right after or as one batch at the end of the day. It’s all automatic, and you don’t need to worry about low balances or reloading, the idea is to make commuting smoother and quicker.

What makes SimplyGo stand out is how it pulls everything together in one place. Whether you’re using a bank card, mobile wallet, or even a special SimplyGo card, the experience stays the same, you can view your travel details, get automatic deductions, and skip top-ups altogether. The government’s pushing SimplyGo as the future of commuting in Singapore, gradually phasing out the older stored-value options. It’s a move toward convenience and digital ease, so more people can travel without friction, with full control over their journeys right from their devices.

Using Contactless Bank Cards

If you have a contactless bank card look for the wave symbol, you can tap in and out of MRT gantries and buses without needing any additional setup.

Steps to Use:

• Tap the card directly on the reader when entering and exiting.
• Monitor your transactions through the SimplyGo website or mobile app.

Advantages:

• No need for a separate transport card.
• Payments are directly charged to your bank account.
• Accessible for both locals and tourists.

Considerations:

• Foreign cards may work, but they can incur international transaction fees.
• Not all banks support SimplyGo, check the latest list on the official site.

Confirming Compatibility

To avoid tapping issues, always check if your card is supported. Visit the SimplyGo or LTA website and look under the “Accepted Payment Methods” section. Singapore-issued contactless cards are almost universally supported, but overseas cards may vary depending on issuing bank and currency policies.

Using SimplyGo Physical Cards

Prefer a physical transport card? SimplyGo-enabled EZ-Link or NETS FlashPay cards provide a hybrid solution. They can be used like traditional EZ-Link cards while offering digital features like transaction tracking and top-up through the app.

Where to Buy:

• MRT station ticket offices.
• Changi Airport MRT Station.
• 7-Eleven and Cheers convenience stores.

Why Choose This Option:

• Retains the familiarity of card tapping.
• More secure if you prefer not to use your main bank card.
• Allows integration with SimplyGo app for full tracking and auto top-up.

Topping Up SimplyGo Cards:

SimplyGo physical cards can be topped up using multiple methods:

• Through the SimplyGo mobile app (via credit/debit card or bank transfer).
• General Ticketing Machines (GTMs) are located in all MRT stations.
• At retail outlets like 7-Eleven and Cheers.
• Via the TransitLink Add Value Machine Plus (AVM+).

You can also set up Auto Top-Up using the app so that your card is automatically replenished when it hits a preset low balance.

Setting Up the SimplyGo App

The SimplyGo mobile app is the hub for managing your travel payments. It is available on both Android and iOS platforms.

How to Set Up:

• Get the SimplyGo app from the App Store or Google Play.
• Create a password and sign up using your email address.
• Connect your bank card or SimplyGo-enabled card.
• Begin managing payments, creating alerts, and tracking trips.

Key Charactersitics:

• See your trip history in real time.
• Get push alerts for every journey.
• Turn on management and reporting for lost cards.
• You can view the balance and validity of your card or set up auto top-up.

Guidance:

• Permit background data so that after every ride, the app can sync instantly.
• For safe and speedy access, enable biometric login.

Making use of mobile wallets (such as Apple Pay, Google Pay, and Samsung Pay)

Mobile wallets provide the utmost convenience for individuals who would rather travel light. You can tap at MRT and bus terminals with your phone or wearable device as long as your wallet is connected to a compatible credit or debit card.

Setup:

• Fill your mobile wallet with a bank card that is accepted.
• Make sure it is designated as the transit payment method by default.
• Turn on NFC on your gadget.

Advantages:

• Advantages: Prevents card conflicts when storing several cards in a physical wallet.
• If you have a phone, it’s always with you.
• It easily connects to SimplyGo records.

Difficulties:

• Needs a fully charged phone battery.
• Transit mode and NFC may not be supported by older phones.

Tech-savvy people or frequent travelers who want everything in one digital ecosystem, from tickets to money, will find mobile wallets especially helpful. Additionally, they are perfect for visitors who might want to avoid the trouble of purchasing local transportation cards.

Are You Still Using Older EZ-Link Cards? What You Should Know

Despite Singapore’s quick switch to the SimplyGo system, many commuters continue to use outdated EZ-Link cards. Since these cards work on a stored-value basis, you have to load them with cash beforehand, and each time you tap in or out, the fare is subtracted from the balance.

How to Spot a Non-SimplyGo EZ-Link Card

Older EZ-Link cards are not connected to an account and lack the SimplyGo logo. You’ll know you’re using one if:

• When you tap, the gantry screen shows your remaining balance.
• At machines or stores, you have to manually top up your card.
• The SimplyGo app does not allow you to view your past fares unless you upgrade or replace the card.

Although the MRT and bus networks still accept these cards, SimplyGo offers more features and convenience.

How The Cards’ Topping Up Process Works

Traditional EZ-Link cards require manual top-ups. The following techniques can be used to increase the value of your card:

• MRT stations have General Ticketing Machines (GTMs).
• There are numerous Add Value Machine Plus (AVM+) stations.
• stores such as Cheers and 7-Eleven.
• TransitLink Ticket Offices, which provide card services and customer service.

Note:  Before using the MRT system or getting on a bus, make sure your card has enough money on it. You won’t be permitted to travel if your balance is too low.

Verifying Your Balance (As Seen at Gantry)

A feature that many people enjoy because it provides instant feedback on how much they’ve spent or have left is the ability to see your remaining balance when you tap in with older EZ-Link cards.

There’s a catch, though! Unless you actively register and link the card to the SimplyGo system, you won’t receive a record of your rides. And that might not even work, depending on the version of your card. So, you give up immediate visibility in exchange for less tracking and fewer digital tools.

Restrictions in contrast with SimplyGo

Older EZ-Link cards are gradually becoming outdated, even though they are still functional. Important restrictions consist of:

• No digital tracking unless it can be manually linked.
• Absence of options for auto top-up, unless you apply separately for the more stringent eligibility requirements of the EZ-Link Auto Top-Up service.
• You must rely on physical infrastructure for balance checks and top-ups if there is less integration with mobile apps.
• If a card is lost or stolen, the SimplyGo system does not provide replacement coverage.

These restrictions can be a major disadvantage for regular commuters who respect efficiency and time. Additionally, you will be urged or driven to upgrade to a SimplyGo-compatible EZ-Link card if your previous one breaks down or expires.
Keeping that in mind, the older EZ-Link cards still prove useful for certain users, such as:

• Students or children who have pre-loaded concession cards.
• Elderly commuters are used to the well-known system.
• Visitors use cards that have been passed down from friends or relatives.

Nonetheless, the shift is clear: SimplyGo is gaining ground on more recent cardholders and users. It might be time to think about the advantages of switching EZ-Link cards if you’re still using an older model. There are several benefits to managing your card via the app, getting push alerts, and avoiding in-person top-ups.

The Option for a Regular Ticket

Standard tickets are still available and helpful in some circumstances, even though the majority of people now pay with digital devices or reloadable cards. Although they’re easy to overlook, they’re useful if you’re only in town temporarily or aren’t yet prepared to set up an EZ-Link or SimplyGo card. You only need to pay; there is no registration required. This traditional approach still works well for people who want a one-time fix without any tech involved.

When to Think About Purchasing a Regular Ticket

Standard tickets are intended for one or a small number of uses and are best suited for the following situations:

• A person is traveling through Singapore for a very short time, like a lengthy layover.
• A commuter requires a fast one-time fix because they have misplaced or forgotten their card.
• When the frequency of a tourist’s or visitor’s use of public transportation is uncertain.
• Users do not want to set up account-based or digital payments.

For those who require instant access to the MRT without creating an account or locating a convenience store to buy a card, these tickets may serve as a backup. They offer ease of use and direct access without the need for apps or prior registration.

How to Use a Ticketing Machine to Buy a Regular Ticket

All MRT stations in Singapore have General Ticketing Machines (GTMs) where standard tickets can be purchased. Depending on the model, these machines can be paid for with a card or cash.

How to Buy:

• At your MRT station, look for a general ticketing machine.
• From the menu or digital map, select the station you want to reach.
• Your fare will be calculated by the machine.
• Use a credit or debit card, or enter the precise amount in coins or notes (if accepted).
• Get your regular ticket

Additionally, some machines accept return trip tickets, which may be somewhat more economical for round-trip travel. Remember that regular tickets are only good for a certain amount of time and typically expire after the trip is over or within a particular time.

Using Your Journey’s Ticket

A standard ticket works like a stored-value card once it’s been purchased, but it can only be used on the route you chose. Insert or tap the ticket at the MRT gantry to enter, then do the same at your destination to exit. Older formats might need to be inserted into specific slots, but most of the standard tickets are contactless and only need to be tapped.

Keeping the ticket secure throughout your trip is essential. You will have to buy a new one if it is lost or damaged. Standard tickets that are lost usually don’t come with a refund or replacement.

Negatives: Inconvenience and Increased Cost for Several Trips

Standard tickets provide a straightforward way to access Singapore’s transportation system, but they have many drawbacks when compared to SimplyGo or EZ-Link cards:

• Slightly Higher Fares: Compared to stored-value or account-based cards, standard ticket fares are typically higher per trip.
• No Fare Integration: The same integrated fare system does not apply to transfers between MRT lines or to buses.
• Time-consuming: Since a new ticket must be purchased for every trip, the entire purchasing process must be repeated.
• Limited Use: Due of the repetitive nature of the process, it is not feasible for daily or frequent trips.
• No App Support or Tracking: There is no way to check fare summaries or track trip history with these tickets.

Professional Advice:

Although they are available, standard tickets are typically less convenient and slightly more costly for multiple trips. It is best to save them for one-time use or emergencies. Purchasing a SimplyGo-compatible card or using your bank’s contactless card will save time and money if you’re staying in Singapore for more than a day or intend to take more than three MRT rides.

Best Practices for Tapping In and Out

Although Singapore’s transport system is effective and easy to use, using the right tapping technique is essential to getting the most out of it. You can avoid overcharging, unsuccessful transactions, and unnecessary delays at gantries and bus entrances by knowing how to tap in and out properly. Learning where and how to tap on your phone or card will help you avoid having to deal with payment problems later.

Locating the Card Reader at the Gantry/Bus

Card readers are prominently placed at

• MRT stations: Located on top of or beside the fare gate (gantry) where you enter and exit.
• Buses: Positioned beside the entrance door and near the exit. You must tap in when you board and tap out when you alight.

These readers are marked clearly and generally display a green light and a beep when a tap is successful. Some may also display a message on a small screen.

The Correct Way to Tap Your Card or Phone

Tapping seems simple, but improper technique can result in failed taps or double charges.

Best Practices:

• Hold the card or phone flat over the reader until you hear a beep or see the confirmation display.
• Do not wave the card too quickly. A firm tap or a short hold works best.
• Avoid tapping a wallet with multiple cards, this often leads to “card clash.”

For mobile wallets:

• Ensure NFC is turned on and the screen is awake.
• Your default card should be pre-selected in your wallet app (Apple Pay, Google Pay, etc.).
• Hold your phone close and steady until the confirmation is displayed.

Expert Tip: Keep Your Card Separate from Others in Your Wallet

Many tapping issues are caused by card clashes, where the reader tries to detect multiple cards simultaneously. This results in payment failures or the wrong card being charged. The best approach is to:

• Remove the intended card from your wallet.
• Use a cardholder with a separate slot.
• If using a mobile phone, keep it away from any NFC-enabled cards.

This simple habit can prevent fare disputes and ensure the correct card is always used.

Verifying a Successful Tap (Watching the Gantry Display)

Each MRT gantry and bus reader provides a visual and audio cue:

• Successful tap: A green light, a beep sound, and a message confirming entry or exit.
• Failed tap: A red light, no sound, or an error message. Try again or switch cards.

For SimplyGo users, the gantry does not display balance information. Instead, it confirms entry/exit and logs the trip digitally. You must check fare details later via the SimplyGo app or website.

For EZ-Link users, the remaining balance is displayed immediately after tapping. This feature helps users track how much is left on the card and whether a top-up is needed.

Ensuring You Tap Out Correctly to Avoid Maximum Fare Charge

One of the most common mistakes among new users is forgetting to tap out. Failing to do so results in a maximum fare being charged, which could be significantly higher than the actual cost of your ride.
To avoid this:

• Always look for the exit reader and tap before walking away.
• Listen for the confirmation beep and check for a green light.
• On buses, tapping out ensures accurate fare calculation based on your distance traveled.

Special Case: If You Forget to Tap Out

• SimplyGo will charge the maximum fare and reflect it in your account.
• You may request a refund via the TransitLink SimplyGo portal, though approval is not guaranteed.

Additional Notes for Mobile Wallet Users

If your phone battery dies mid-trip and you’re unable to tap out:

• You’ll be charged the maximum fare.
• Some users carry a backup card for emergencies.

Pro Tip: Monitor your battery and have your card easily accessible if your device shuts down.

Troubleshooting Common Payment Issues

Even in a well-functioning system, occasional problems may arise. Here’s how to quickly resolve them.

Card Not Tapping Correctly

Causes: Card clash, damaged card, poor tap technique. Fix: Remove other cards, hold firmly on the reader, try again, or use another method.

Insufficient Funds:

• SimplyGo: This may allow a negative balance; the amount will be deducted later.
• EZ-Link: Requires top-up before entry.

Fix: Top up at machines, use another payment method, or switch to auto top-up via app.

Difficulty Checking Balance:

• SimplyGo doesn’t show balance at gantries.
• Use the SimplyGo app or website to view details.

Foreign Card Issues:

Fix: Check compatibility on the SimplyGo site; if issues persist, use a local card or buy a Tourist Pass to avoid fees.

Quick Flow:

1. Tap fails → Check card or app
2. Still fails? → Try another method
3. Seek help at a station or contact TransitLink

Fare Calculation Explained

Singapore uses a distance-based fare system.

• Fares depend on distance, not the payment method.
• There’s no price advantage between SimplyGo, EZ-Link, or credit card.

Check: Use the LTA Fare Calculator online for exact fares.

Particular Attention to Multiple Users

For Travelers

• Get a Singapore Tourist Pass (STP) or use a contactless card.
• For one to three days, STP provides unlimited rides.
• Accessible at Changi Airport and major MRT stations.

For Locals & Students

• Make use of mobile wallets or cards that support SimplyGo.
• If you qualify, sign up for concession fares.
• Use the SimplyGo app to report lost cards.

Establishing Certain Accuracy and Reliability

For the most recent information, consult official sources.

• LTA Website
• SimplyGo
• Card provider websites for compatibility and terms

FAQ: Frequently Asked Questions

Conclusion:

In Singapore, there is a payment option for everyone. Standard tickets are always available if necessary, EZ-Link cards are easy to use and trustworthy, and SimplyGo is fast and digital. Choose what works for you, tap easily, and take advantage of one of the most efficient public transportation systems in the world.

Reminder:  Check official websites like TransitLink, EZ-Link, and SimplyGo for the most recent information on prices and service specifics.