See: http://www.rtachicago.com/fare-programs/reduced-fare-program.html
Applying for a Reduced Fare RTA Pass
The process of getting a reduced fare RTA pass can be time consuming but relatively simple.
To get the pass, you have to get the application from downtown. The location is RTA’s Customer Service Center at 165 N. Jefferson in Chicago. Their hours are Monday through Friday, 8:30 a.m. to 5:00 p.m.
If you are affiliated with a social service they might already have some in their office for their clients or can help you get one. You will need to ask though.
Once you have the application, you fill it out and have your doctor write a brief letter about your condition and/or diagnosis. Psychiatric conditions do appear to be covered.
There does not appear to be an income or resources limit.
With the filled out form and a copy of your state ID, you then need to get a photo ID. You can get this done at multiple places, including having a passport photo taken. See http://www.rtachicago.com/CMS400Min/uploadedFiles/Sr_Registration_Centers.pdf for a list of locations to get your photo taken and drop off your application.
For example, at the Levy Center on Aging in Lincoln Square, you get your photo taken on a digital camera (so it was a color photo) and pay the person $1. They then submit you application and ask you to wait 4-6 weeks to receive your card.
Using the Card
One you have your card, you can load money onto the card and pay a reduced fare on the CTA. It’s 85 cents for a ride and 15 cents to transfer. Second transfers are free.
You can also use it on the Metra and PACE because it is part of RTA. However, they have different rates.
Monthly Reduced Fare CTA Passes
In addition, you can also purchase a separate reduced fare pass. Unfortunately, the only reduced passes are monthly passes, which are $35. There are no reduced passes for day, week, etc. To get this pass, you can get it where CTA passes are sold or purchase it online. To buy it online, visit http://faremedia.chicago-card.com/store/main.aspx?DepartmentId=34
When using the monthly pass, you first insert your monthly pass into the machine then your photo ID reduced fare pass. You have to keep your reduced fare pass on you even if you are using the monthly pass. If you accidentally insert your photo ID reduced fare pass first you will get charged and the money is unlikely to be refunded.
The Free Transit Card
There is also a People With Disabilities Ride Free program. This can be extremely difficult to get because you first need to be awarded Social Security Disability, then successfully enroll in Circuit Breaker, which does have income and assets guidelines, and then you are eligible for the free card. Once you have the free card, you can ride for free on CTA buses and trains, Metra, and PACE. You’ll have to reapply for Circuit Breaker once a year.
Enlightening the Darkness 