Why Trust MoneySmart?SimplyGo is the account-based fare system for our buses and trains. Instead of fares being deducted from a stored value on your card at the gantry, they're processed at the back end, much like a regular credit or debit card purchase. SimplyGo was introduced in 2019 by LTA to offer a range of digital ticketing and e-payment options for transit, and it's also what lets you tap in with your bank card or phone.
For the majority of us in Singapore, utilising the bus and MRT serves as our primary means of travel. So, here’s an overview to help you keep up with the latest and upcoming changes on payments for public transportation, plus the added benefit of earning cashback, rewards, and air miles with every commute.
Best Credit Cards for SimplyGo
What's changed with SimplyGo in 2026?
The EZ-Link app is gone, and SimplyGo is now the only app you need. The old EZ-Link app was shut down on 8 January 2026, and all EZ-Link functions have been integrated into the SimplyGo app. Your physical card isn't affected, though: physical EZ-Link cards continue to work at train gantries and on buses.
In the SimplyGo app, you can now view travel history and payment transactions, apply for auto top-ups for EZ-Link and Concession cards, apply for the Motoring service for ERP and carpark charges without needing a card in the IU/OBU, submit travel claims, and block lost EZ-Link cards and recover the remaining value.
No more EZ-Link top-ups at AXS stations. With effect from 29 August 2026, top-ups for EZ-Link and SimplyGo EZ-Link cards are no longer available at AXS Stations. If that was your go-to top-up method, switch to the SimplyGo app, a ticketing machine, or auto top-up.
New app features rolled out this year. The SimplyGo app has received a steady stream of updates in 2026, including:
Push notifications for train disruptions on your selected lines, along with information on free bus bridging locations
Real-time crowd status at nearby MRT or LRT stations
Travel Gift Vouchers that you can buy in the app for family and friends using SimplyGo EZ-Link or SimplyGo Concession cards
An $80 top-up amount option when setting up Auto Top-up for SimplyGo EZ-Link and SimplyGo Concession cards
Which payment option should you use?
SimplyGo EZ-Link card: A good pick if you prefer a dedicated transit card but want to manage everything in the app. You can set up auto top-up so you never get stuck at the gantry.
Contactless credit or debit card (or mobile wallet): The most convenient option, since there's no topping up and no extra card to carry. More importantly, it's the only option that lets you earn cashback, rewards points or miles on your fares. One tip: if your bank card has a CEPAS logo on the back, it has EZ-Link/NETS FlashPay functionality, which works differently, as upfront top-ups are required for contactless bank cards with EZ-Link or NETS FlashPay functionality.
Concession cards: If you're a student, senior, NSF, person with disabilities or Workfare Transport Concession cardholder, stick with your concession card for the discounted fares. You can apply for, replace or buy Monthly Concession Passes in the SimplyGo app.
How to earn cashback, rewards and miles on your commute
Since bus and MRT fares are a small but regular expense, they add up over a month, and paying with the right credit card can turn them into a steady stream of cashback or miles. A few things to keep in mind:
Check if transit spend counts. Not every card rewards SimplyGo transactions, and some exclude them or cap them under a separate category. Read the card's T&Cs before you commit.
Mind the minimum spend. Many cashback cards only pay out the advertised rate once you hit a monthly minimum spend. Your fares alone probably won't get you there, so pair your commute with your other regular spending.
Look out for transport bonus categories. Some cards offer boosted rates on transport, which may cover public transport, ride-hailing, or both.
Use one card consistently. Tapping different cards on different days scatters your spending and makes it harder to hit minimum spend or bonus thresholds.
