If you ride GO Transit or UP Express without valid proof of payment, the hit to your pocketbook will run deeper.
Metrolinx is increasing fines for fare evasion starting September 8, with the amount going up for repeat offences.
The Ontario government says fare evasion on the GO rail network is about 5.1 per cent, representing roughly $21 million in lost revenue each year.
The first offence will carry a $200 fine. That increases to $300 for a second offence, $400 for a third and $500 for a fourth.
A fifth offence will result in a Provincial Offence Notice with a set fine of $600.
For a sixth offence and any offences after that, Metrolinx says a court summons will be issued, with fines of up to $1,000 upon conviction.
Metrolinx is also reminding GO and UP Express passengers to make sure they have valid proof of payment before travelling.
That includes tapping a PRESTO card, credit card or Interac Debit card when starting and ending a trip. Passengers should use the same card when transferring between GO Transit and UP Express, GO trains and buses, and GO and connecting transit agencies.
Passengers with a default trip set on their PRESTO card may also need to override it if they're travelling to a different station.
Metrolinx says students, seniors and veterans should make sure they have the correct fare type on their PRESTO card and carry valid identification that may be required during a fare inspection.
And if you're using a GO or UP e-ticket or group pass, Metrolinx says it needs to be activated before boarding. E-tickets become valid five minutes after activation.
