How to Pay Your Metro Bill Online

Pay Your Metro Bill Through Their Website or App

Metro (the transit agency serving the Los Angeles area) lets you pay your bill online through their official website or mobile app. You log in with your account number and password, then choose your payment method — debit card, credit card, or bank account. The payment posts within one to two business days, and you get a confirmation number right away.

The fastest route is the Metro website at metro.lacounty.gov. Look for the "Pay My Bill" or "Account" section. If you don't have an online account yet, you'll need to create one using your account number (found on your bill) and some basic information like your zip code or service address.

Metro also has a mobile app available on iOS and Android. The app works the same way as the website — you log in, select the amount to pay, and choose your payment method. Some people find the app easier because you can save your payment information for faster checkout next time.

Key Takeaways

• You can pay Metro bills online through metro.lacounty.gov or the Metro mobile app using a debit card, credit card, or bank account.
• You'll need your Metro account number to set up an online account if you don't have one already.
• Payments typically post within one to two business days, and you receive a confirmation number when ready after paying.
• You can set up automatic recurring payments through your online account so you don't have to pay manually each month.
• If you have trouble logging in or your account number isn't working, Metro's customer service can help you reset your password or locate your account.

What You Need Before You Pay Online

Gather these items before you start: your Metro account number (on your bill), a valid debit or credit card, or your bank account and routing number if you want to pay from your checking or savings account. You'll also need a password — either one you've already created for your Metro account, or you'll create one during your first login.

If you've lost your bill or don't know your account number, you can look it up on the Metro website by entering your service address or phone number. Metro's customer service line can also provide your account number if you call them.

Step-by-Step: Paying on the Metro Website

Step 1: Go to metro.lacounty.gov and find the "Pay My Bill" or "Account" link, usually in the top navigation or under a "Customer Service" section.

Step 2: Log in with your account number and password. If this is your first time, select "Create Account" and follow the prompts to set up your login.

Step 3: Once logged in, you'll see your account balance and due date. Select the option to make a payment.

Step 4: Enter the amount you want to pay. You can pay the full balance, the minimum due, or a custom amount.

Step 5: Choose your payment method: debit card, credit card, or bank account. Enter the card or account details.

Step 6: Review the payment details and confirm. You'll receive a confirmation number on screen and via email.

Setting Up Automatic Payments

If you want to stop paying manually each month, Metro lets you set up automatic recurring payments. Log into your account, go to the payment or billing section, and look for "Automatic Payments" or "Recurring Payments." You'll choose the amount (usually your full bill), the day of the month you want it charged, and your payment method.

Automatic payments take the same one to two business days to post as manual payments. You can change or cancel automatic payments anytime through your online account — you don't have to call Metro to stop them. Metro will send you a reminder email a few days before each automatic payment goes through.

Payment Methods and Fees

Metro accepts debit cards, credit cards, and bank account payments (ACH transfers) online. There are no fees for paying with a debit card or bank account. Some credit card companies may charge a cash advance fee if they classify the payment that way, but Metro itself does not add a fee for credit card payments — that's between you and your card issuer.

If you prefer not to pay online, Metro also accepts payments by phone (by calling their customer service line), by mail (sending a check to the address on your bill), or in person at Metro customer service centers. Phone and mail payments may take longer to post than online payments.

What to Do If Your Payment Doesn't Go Through

If you see an error message during payment, the most common causes are a mistyped card number, an expired card, or insufficient funds in your bank account. Double-check the card or account number and try again. If the payment still fails, try a different payment method.

If a payment was charged to your card but doesn't show up in your Metro account within two business days, contact Metro customer service with your confirmation number. They can look up the payment and explore it to your account manually if needed. Keep your confirmation number and any receipts until the payment appears in your account.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I pay my Metro bill with a prepaid card?

Yes, most prepaid cards work online as long as they have a Visa or Mastercard logo and are registered with your name and address. Some prepaid cards may decline if they're not set up for online transactions — if that happens, try a different payment method or contact your prepaid card issuer to enable online payments.

How long does it take for my online payment to show up?

Metro typically posts online payments within one to two business days. Payments made on weekends or holidays may take longer. If your payment doesn't appear within two business days, contact Metro customer service with your confirmation number.

What if I don't have an email address for my Metro account?

You'll need an email address to create an online account and receive payment confirmations. If you don't have one, you can create a free email account through Gmail, Yahoo, or another provider, then use that email to set up your Metro account.

Can I change my payment method after I've set up automatic payments?

Yes. Log into your account, go to the automatic payments section, and edit your payment method. The change takes effect on your next scheduled payment date.

What happens if I pay more than I owe?

The overpayment stays in your account as a credit and will be applied to your next bill. If you want a refund instead, contact Metro customer service and they can process a refund to your original payment method.