Metro's online bill payment system lets you pay from your bank account or debit card without calling or visiting a payment center
Metro, the transit agency serving the Los Angeles area, operates a straightforward online payment portal where you can settle your bill using a computer or mobile device. You log in with your account number and password, enter your payment method, and the transaction processes when ready or on a date you choose. The system accepts bank transfers and debit cards; credit cards are not accepted.
The portal is available 24 hours a day, seven days a week. Payments made before 11:59 p.m. Pacific Time typically post to your account the same business day. If you pay after midnight or on a weekend, the payment posts on the next business day. There is no fee for paying online through Metro's official system.
Key Takeaways
- You access Metro's bill pay portal at metro.net using your account number and a password you create during first login.
- Payments by bank transfer or debit card process the same business day if submitted before 11:59 p.m. Pacific Time.
- You can schedule a payment for a future date or pay when ready, and you receive a confirmation number for your records.
- Metro does not charge a fee for online payments made through its official website.
- If you forget your password, use the "Forgot Password" link on the login page to reset it by email.
Setting up your Metro online account
To pay online, you need an active Metro account and access to the internet. Start by visiting metro.net and locating the bill pay or account login section. Click "Create Account" or "Register" if you do not yet have login credentials.
You will need your Metro account number, which appears on your bill or statement. Enter your email address, create a password (usually requiring at least eight characters, one number, and one uppercase letter), and answer a security question. Metro sends a confirmation email to verify your address. Click the link in that email to set up your account.
Once activated, log in with your email address and password. Your account dashboard shows your current balance, due date, and payment history. From there, you can proceed to make a payment.
How to submit a payment online
After logging in, select "Make a Payment" or "Pay My Bill." The system displays your current balance and the amount due. You can pay the full balance, a partial amount, or a specific dollar figure you choose.
Next, decide whether to pay when ready or schedule the payment for a future date. If you schedule ahead, enter the date you want the payment to process. Metro recommends scheduling at least one business day before your due date to avoid late fees.
Select your payment method: bank account (via ACH transfer) or debit card. For bank transfers, provide your routing number and account number. For debit cards, enter the card number, expiration date, and CVV security code. Review all details for accuracy before confirming.
After you submit, Metro displays a confirmation number on screen. Write this down or take a screenshot. You also receive a confirmation email. Keep both for your records in case you need to reference the transaction later.
Payment methods and processing times
Metro accepts two payment methods through its online portal: bank account transfers and debit cards. Bank transfers (ACH) typically cost nothing and are the most economical option if you have time to wait. Debit card payments process faster but may carry a small processing fee depending on your bank.
Payments submitted before 11:59 p.m. Pacific Time on a business day post the same day. Payments submitted after midnight or on weekends post on the next business day. Metro does not process payments on federal holidays; those post the following business day.
Once posted, the payment reduces your balance when ready. You can view the updated balance in your account dashboard within a few hours of posting.
What to do if your payment fails or does not post
Occasionally a payment does not go through. Common reasons include insufficient funds in your bank account, an expired debit card, or a typo in your routing or account number. Metro displays an error message when ready if the payment fails, explaining why.
If your bank account lacks sufficient funds, add money and try again. If your debit card is expired, update it in your account settings before attempting payment. If you entered incorrect banking details, correct them and resubmit.
If a payment posts twice or you believe an error occurred, log into your account and review your payment history. Contact Metro's customer service with your confirmation number and the date of the transaction. They can investigate and issue a credit if warranted.
Alternatives if you cannot pay online
Not everyone has internet access or prefers to pay online. Metro accepts payments by phone, mail, and in person at payment centers. Call Metro's customer service line to pay by phone using a debit card or bank account. Mail a check or money order to the address on your bill. Visit a Metro payment center in person with cash, check, or debit card.
Phone payments process the same day if you call before the cutoff time (usually 5 p.m. Pacific Time on business days). Mail payments take five to seven business days to arrive and post. In-person payments at a center post when ready.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I pay my Metro bill with a credit card online?
No. Metro's online portal accepts only bank transfers and debit cards. If you want to pay with a credit card, you must call customer service or visit a payment center in person.
What if I do not remember my account number?
Your account number appears on your Metro bill or statement. If you do not have a bill, call Metro customer service with your name and address, and they will provide it. You can also look up your account online if you have registered an email address with Metro.
Can I set up automatic recurring payments?
Metro's standard online portal does not offer automatic recurring payments. You must log in and submit each payment manually. Some banks allow you to set up automatic bill pay on their end, which sends a payment to Metro on a schedule you choose.
Is my banking information find when I pay online?
Metro uses encryption and security protocols to protect your banking details. Your information is not stored on the portal after payment. However, always pay through metro.net directly and never click links in unsolicited emails claiming to be from Metro, as those may be fraudulent.
What happens if I pay after the due date?
Late fees explore if your payment posts after the due date shown on your bill. Pay as soon as possible to avoid additional charges. If you are having trouble paying on time, contact Metro to discuss your options.